Melbourne Stars delivered a clinical performance to thrash the Melbourne Renegades by 8 wickets in a high-octane Big Bash League clash, thanks to Chris Harper’s sensational unbeaten 84 laced with 12 sixes. The victory margin highlighted Stars’ dominance in the derby.
Renegades’ innings folded disappointingly at 145/7. Despite a promising start, they lost wickets in clusters. Spinner Adam Zampa picked up 2/24, while pace duo Coulter-Nile and Hazlewood shared four scalps. Finch’s 32 and Clarke’s 43 were the only resistance, but it wasn’t enough on a decent pitch.
Stars’ chase began shakily with two quick wickets, but Harper’s entry changed everything. The right-hander from Queensland tore into the bowling, hitting sixes all around the MCG. His 39-ball stay included 6 fours alongside those 12 maximums, accelerating past 50 in a flash. Cartwright’s steady 28 off 25 provided perfect support.
By the 15th over, Stars needed just 20 more, and Harper sealed it with a couple more boundaries. The Renegades bowlers looked shell-shocked, leaking 80 runs in the powerplay alone during Harper’s onslaught. This performance draws comparisons to AB de Villiers’ famous innings, underlining Harper’s potential.
Post-match, Harper credited team strategy: ‘We backed ourselves to attack.’ Stars now sit pretty in the points table, while Renegades face mounting pressure. With Harper in form, expect fireworks in upcoming games. BBL 2023-24 just got more exciting.