In one of the most extraordinary matches in Big Bash League history, the Perth Scorchers posted a mammoth record total only to see it chased down by the Brisbane Heat in a last-ball thriller at Optus Stadium.
A Record-Breaking Innings Falls Short
The Perth Scorchers, batting first, unleashed a brutal assault on the Brisbane Heat bowlers. Zak Crawley set the tone with a blistering 46 from just 22 deliveries. The onslaught was continued by Josh Inglis, who smashed a magnificent 74 from 35 balls, and Aaron Hardie, who provided a powerful finish with an unbeaten 54 from 25 deliveries.
Their combined efforts propelled the Scorchers to a formidable 5/229. This score set a new benchmark as the highest total ever posted by the Perth-based franchise in the BBL, surpassing their previous best of 5/226 set back in 2019.
The Heat's Miraculous Chase
Facing a seemingly impossible target of 230, the Brisbane Heat's reply began shakily, losing early wickets. However, the game was turned on its head by a breathtaking partnership between Nathan McSweeney and Josh Brown.
McSweeney played a captain's knock, anchoring the innings with a superb 84 from 51 balls. He found the perfect partner in Brown, who exploded for a devastating 57 from just 23 deliveries. Their stand ripped the momentum away from the Scorchers and put the Heat firmly back in contention.
The drama reached its peak in the final over, bowled by Jason Behrendorff. With 15 runs needed, Paul Walter held his nerve, striking crucial boundaries. The equation came down to three runs required from the final ball. Walter connected cleanly, sending the ball to the boundary to seal a miraculous victory for the Heat, finishing on 5/232.
Aftermath and Implications
The result is a crushing blow for the Perth Scorchers, who had seemingly done everything right with the bat. Defending a record total at their home fortress, Optus Stadium, makes the loss even more bitter. It highlights the unpredictable and explosive nature of T20 cricket, where no total is ever truly safe.
For the Brisbane Heat, this victory is a statement of immense character and power-hitting prowess. Chasing down 230 will be a massive confidence booster as they push for a finals berth. Key performances from McSweeney and Brown proved that the Heat possess batting firepower deep enough to challenge any opponent.
The match will be remembered as an instant BBL classic, featuring 461 runs scored in under 40 overs of breathtaking entertainment. It serves as a stark reminder to all teams that the game is never over until the final ball is bowled.
