The Perth Scorchers have taken a giant stride towards securing a Big Bash League finals berth after a tense 32-run victory over the Adelaide Strikers at Adelaide Oval on Sunday, 11 January 2026.
Despite posting a formidable total of 4-232, the Scorchers faced a fierce chase from the Strikers before their young bowling attack staged a remarkable comeback to restrict the hosts to 8-200.
Marsh Unleashes Power at the Top
Australian white-ball captain Mitch Marsh was in devastating form, blasting 88 runs from just 51 deliveries at the top of the order. His innings, which included seven sixes and six fours, provided the foundation for Perth's imposing score. Marsh's knock took his season tally to 279 runs, with a significant 210 of those coming in just two explosive innings.
The Scorchers' powerplay was utterly dominant, with Marsh and opening partner Finn Allen smashing 95 runs from the first six overs. The pair hit six maximums in the first four overs alone, setting a fearsome tone. The momentum continued into the power surge, taken immediately after the drinks break, which yielded another 26 quick runs.
Bowling Unit Stages Stunning Collapse
Adelaide's response was blistering, racing to 2-139 after 12 overs and threatening to replicate their famous chase against the Brisbane Heat earlier in the season. However, the Scorchers' bowlers held their nerve under intense pressure.
The turning point came in the 13th over, where debutant leg-spinner Luke Holt, backed by skipper Ashton Turner after a tough first over, conceded just four runs. This triggered a stunning collapse, with the Strikers losing 6-14 in the dying stages. Cooper Connolly, Mahli Beardman, David Payne, and Jhye Richardson all claimed crucial wickets to seal the win.
Controversy and Captain's Call
The match wasn't without its moments of controversy. In a reminder of their contentious loss to the Melbourne Renegades, the Scorchers were involved in another disputed catch early on. Finn Allen was given out after Strikers captain Matt Short claimed a catch at point, a decision that required lengthy review by television umpire Michael Graham-Smith before being upheld.
Off the field, Scorchers captain Ashton Turner's luck with the bat flip continued to elude him. Turner called incorrectly for the seventh consecutive match, meaning an opposing captain has chosen whether to bat or bowl against Perth in every game since their season opener.
This crucial away win significantly strengthens the Perth Scorchers' position in the BBL standings as they push for a place in the finals series.
