The Melbourne Stars delivered a commanding performance to defeat Hobart Hurricanes by eight wickets, reaching 159 for 2 in response to the Hurricanes’ 158 for 9. Veteran pacer Peter Siddle took 3 for 30, restricting the defending champions, while captain Marcus Stoinis and Campbell Kellaway guided the Stars to a smooth chase.
Siddle’s disciplined bowling, alongside Haris Rauf, dismantled the Hurricanes’ lower order, with four wickets falling in just six balls toward the end of their innings. Glenn Maxwell also played a key role with his clever off-spin, dismissing Mitch Owen early and setting the tone for the Stars’ dominance.
During the chase, Stoinis was unbeaten on 62 off 31 balls, striking a six to seal victory, while Kellaway contributed 41 not out off 27 deliveries. Stoinis also earned the Player of the Match award for his outstanding batting and his two wickets.
Ben McDermott was the standout for the Hurricanes, scoring 69, but his efforts were largely unsupported, and the loss of Tim David in the powerplay triggered a collapse that the Stars capitalized on. Maxwell further impressed with a spectacular over-the-boundary catch to dismiss Matthew Wade.
Siddle, who retired from international cricket in 2019 but continues to excel domestically, praised his preparation and training, noting that he tailored his regime to remain sharp for the BBL season. The 41-year-old highlighted his love for competing and his focus on delivering strong performances.
The Stars now turn their attention to their next BBL fixture against the Adelaide Strikers, while Hobart Hurricanes will look to bounce back against the Melbourne Renegades in Geelong on Sunday
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