The Melbourne Renegades have ignited their KFC Big Bash League campaign with a spectacular, high-scoring victory over the Hobart Hurricanes at GMHBA Stadium in Geelong. In a match brimming with power-hitting, the home side chased down a formidable target with an over to spare, sending the local crowd into a frenzy.
Finch and Sutherland's Power-Packed Partnership
The foundation of the Renegades' successful chase of 188 was a blistering third-wicket stand between veteran opener Aaron Finch and the in-form Will Sutherland. Finch, showcasing the class that has made him an Australian white-ball legend, smashed a dominant 63 runs from just 40 deliveries. His innings was a masterclass in clean hitting, featuring five fours and three sixes.
At the other end, Sutherland continued his outstanding all-round tournament, playing a perfectly complementary innings. He was equally destructive, racing to 53 not out from a mere 32 balls. Their partnership effectively broke the back of the chase, shifting the momentum decisively in the Renegades' favour after they had lost a couple of early wickets.
Hurricanes Set a Steep Target
Earlier, after being sent in to bat, the Hobart Hurricanes posted a challenging total of 187 for 7 from their 20 overs. The innings was built around a superb knock from English import Liam Dawson, who top-scored with an unbeaten 67 from just 42 balls. He found strong support from Macalister Wright (34) and Tim David, who provided a late flurry with a quickfire 19.
For the Renegades, the bowling honours were shared. Tom Rogers was the pick of the attack, claiming 3 wickets for 31 runs from his four overs. Spinner Adam Zampa also bowled a crucial spell, taking 2 for 36, including the key wicket of Hurricanes captain Nathan Ellis.
A Commanding Finish and Tournament Implications
The Renegades' chase was clinical in the final stages. With Finch and Sutherland setting the platform, the lower order had little pressure to contend with. Jake Fraser-McGurk (23) and Jonathan Wells (22 not out) provided the finishing touches, ensuring the home team reached the target with six balls remaining, finishing on 188 for 4.
This victory is a significant boost for the Renegades' hopes in BBL|13, providing crucial points and a major lift in net run rate. For the Hurricanes, it's a missed opportunity after posting a competitive score, with their bowlers unable to contain the Renegades' powerful batting lineup on the night.
The match, played on a true Geelong wicket, was a fantastic advertisement for the Big Bash League, featuring over 370 runs and showcasing the explosive talent on both sides. The result firmly places the Renegades back in the mix for the finals series.
