High drama crowned the final of the KFC T20 Big Bash League, with last-ball drama seeing the Perth Scorchers become the first team to retain the BBL trophy, beating the Sydney Sixers in astonishing circumstances.
In an excellent advert for T20 cricket, the Scorchers were left requiring eight off Brett Lee’s final over in professional cricket. Seven runs in three balls left one required, but two stunning Yorkers from Lee dismiseed Nathan Coulter-Nile and Sam Whiteman in consecutive deliveries.
With one run required off the last ball, the match twisted once more. Yasir Arafat popped the ball out on to the leg side before departing on what looked a suicidal single. The ball was thrown in on the bounce from midwicket, with Sixers captain Moises Henriques ready and waiting over the stumps, only to fumble the chance to seal the trophy as Arafat dived through into his crease.
It meant heartbreak for the Sixers, boasting Outlaws Michael Lumb and Riki Wessels, but elation for former Nottinghamshire overseas man Adam Voges, leading the Scorchers to victory.
Set 148 to win after the Sixers posted 147-5 from their 20 overs, Shaun Marsh’s 59-ball 73 anchored the Scorchers’ innings. An ooening stand worth 70 with Michael Klinger set the tone for the chase, while Voges himself added a 13-ball 20 to support Marsh’s efforts.
Nathan Lyon took two wickets in his final over, including the prize scalp of Marsh, but Nathan Coulter-Nile’s six off the last ball set up the final six dramatic deliveries.
While many will remember Henriques for his miss in this match, it was his innings that ensured that it was even a contest. After the Sixers lost both Lumb and Wessels early, they were already on the back foot. From there they were pegged further back to 49-4 from 9.2 overs.
Henriques timed his innings excellently, building steadily before exploding toward the climax. Clubbing three fours and two sixers in scoring 42 from the final 19 balls he faced, he was eventually dismissed with the innings’ final ball, leaving Ryan Carters unbeaten on 35 from 25.
Trent Bridge hosts the fourth Royal London One-Day International between England and New Zealand on Wednesday 17 June. Don't miss the chance to take in what promises to be an absorbing contest and secure your seat now.