Adelaide Strikers vs Perth Scorchers, 17th Match Highlights

Cricket Highlights, Dec 31: Big Bash League 2024 (17th Match) – Adelaide Strikers vs Perth Scorchers

AS vs PS (17th Match) – Highlights

In this article, we will discuss the thrilling encounter between the AS and the PS in the 17th match of the Big Bash League 2024, held on December 31 at the iconic Adelaide Oval. The match showcased the Scorchers’ dominance as they comfortably chased down a target of 143 runs with 33 balls to spare, securing a convincing seven-wicket victory. Despite the Strikers’ efforts to defend their total of 142/8, the Scorchers displayed a clinical performance with both bat and ball, underlining their reputation as one of the tournament’s strongest sides.

The Strikers’ innings began on a shaky note as their top order crumbled against the disciplined Scorchers’ bowling attack. D’Arcy Short (22 off 19) was the only opener who managed to get a start, striking a couple of boundaries and a six.

However, he lacked support at the other end. Wickets fell in quick succession, with Ollie Pope (1 off 5), Chris Lynn (1 off 3), and Jake Weatherald (8 off 8) failing to make significant contributions. By the end of the powerplay, the Strikers were precariously placed at 30/3, with their scoring rate stifled and momentum nowhere in sight.

The middle order fared no better, as Alex Ross (20 off 15), Jamie Overton (1 off 2), and Liam Scott (0 off 1) all succumbed to the pressure exerted by the Scorchers’ bowlers. At one point, the Strikers found themselves reeling at 35/6, staring at the possibility of being bowled out cheaply.

However, Brendan Doggett and Cameron Boyce rescued the innings with a remarkable 84-run partnership for the 9th wicket. Doggett, typically a bowler, displayed surprising resilience and aggression, scoring an unbeaten 47 off 39 balls, which included 5 fours and 2 sixes. Boyce supported him admirably with a quick 29 off 22, hitting 3 fours and a six. Their efforts propelled the Strikers to a modest total of 142/8.

The Scorchers’ bowlers were clinical, with Jason Behrendorff (2/14 in 4 overs) and Lance Morris (2/19 in 4 overs) delivering standout performances. Jhye Richardson’s three wickets (3/29) further dismantled the Strikers, while Andrew Tye (1/46) and the supporting spinners kept the pressure on.

In reply, the Scorchers began with a slight hiccup, losing Matty Hurst (3 off 7) and Aaron Hardie (2 off 4) within the first two overs. However, Finn Allen took charge, playing a stunning knock of 50 off just 23 balls. His innings, laced with 4 fours and 3 sixes, turned the tide in favor of the Scorchers, allowing them to dominate the powerplay.

Following Allen’s dismissal, Cooper Connolly (48* off 35) and Ashton Turner (35* off 18) anchored the chase. Their unbroken 57-run partnership sealed the game for the Scorchers in just 14.3 overs. Connolly played a composed knock, while Turner finished with a flourish, striking boundaries at will. Despite the efforts of Brendan Doggett (1/19) and Henry Thornton (2/26), the AS could not contain the PS firepower.

This commanding victory highlighted the Scorchers’ all-around strength, reaffirming their dominance in the tournament. The Strikers, on the other hand, will need to regroup and address their batting frailties to stay competitive in the league.

Adelaide Strikers vs Perth Scorchers Scoreboard

Adelaide Strikers– 142/8

Perth Scorchers– 146/3(14.3/20)

Result – Scorchers won by 7 wickets (with 33 balls remaining)

Player of the Match – Cooper Connolly

AS vs PS Playing XI