In a thrilling Big Bash League encounter at Perth Stadium, Mitchell Marsh came agonizingly close to a maiden BBL century but fell short by just four runs, powering Perth Scorchers to a mammoth 233-run target against Adelaide Strikers. The Scorchers’ explosive batting display set the tone early, with openers racing to a 50-run stand in under five overs.
Marsh, promoted up the order, unleashed a brutal onslaught, smashing 96 off 44 balls with nine fours and six towering sixes. His aggressive strokeplay dismantled the Strikers’ bowling attack, particularly against spinners Lloyd Pope and Thomas Kelly. A mix of powerful drives and audacious ramps left the crowd roaring, but a mistimed pull off David Payne in the 17th over ended his stay.
Captain Ashton Turner then took charge, blasting 41 off 19 deliveries to push the score beyond 220. Laurie Evans contributed a quickfire 32, ensuring momentum never dipped. The Scorchers lost only four wickets, finishing at 7/232 in 20 overs. Strikers’ bowlers toiled hard, with Payne grabbing 2/39, but couldn’t stem the flow.
Adelaide now faces a daunting chase under lights. With dew likely to aid batting, they need fireworks from their top order. Scorchers’ bowlers Jason Behrendorff and Andrew Tye will be key in defending the total. This clash highlights BBL’s high-octane appeal, drawing record crowds to Perth.