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In a match that will be remembered as one of the greatest comebacks in Big Bash League (BBL) history, the Melbourne Renegades overcame a disastrous start to chase down 148, sealing a four-wicket win over the Perth Scorchers in Perth. This win keeps their campaign alive and showcases the heroics of Will Sutherland (70 off 45) and Tom Rogers (49* off 31).
A Night of Resilience and Drama
Early Struggles for the Renegades
The chase began disastrously for the visitors, as Jason Behrendorff (2-22) struck with a double-wicket maiden, reducing the Renegades to 0 for 2 in no time. The collapse deepened to 10 for 4, with Jacob Bethell and Laurie Evans also falling to the Scorchers’ dominant new-ball attack.
Under the floodlights in Perth, the ball moved appreciably, and it seemed like the Renegades’ innings would fold. However, the mantra for surviving in Perth’s T20 games is persistence through the first ten overs—a strategy that paid off for the visitors.
Sutherland and Rogers Shine Under Pressure
Will Sutherland Leads the Fightback
Skipper Will Sutherland displayed remarkable composure, balancing deft touches with explosive strokes as he anchored the Renegades’ recovery. He found some support from Marcus Harris (21 off 26) as the duo added a crucial 37 runs for the fifth wicket.
Despite Sutherland’s eventual departure, Tom Rogers rose to the occasion. Batting at No. 7, he partnered with Sutherland in a game-changing 92-run stand and finished the chase with a calm head.
Scorchers Falter in the Final Overs
The Scorchers, known for their tenacity, uncharacteristically wilted under pressure as the Renegades found their rhythm. Boundaries began to flow, and Rogers held his nerve to seal the win with two deliveries to spare.
Earlier: Scorchers Struggle to Set a Defendable Total
The Scorchers’ innings also faced turbulence, with Finn Allen’s aggressive start (10 off 2) ending prematurely. Will Sutherland and Tom Rogers picked up crucial wickets early, including Mitch Marsh and Cooper Connolly, leaving Perth at 3 for 30.
Aaron Hardie (34 off 34) attempted to anchor the innings, but Ashton Agar’s late blitz (51* off 30) ultimately salvaged a total of 147. Adam Zampa (3-27) played a pivotal role in the middle and death overs, containing the Scorchers and setting up a manageable chase for the Renegades.
Key Takeaways
- Top Performers: Will Sutherland (70) and Tom Rogers (49*) starred for the Renegades, excelling with both bat and ball.
- Turning Point: The 92-run stand between Sutherland and Rogers shifted momentum entirely in favor of the Renegades.
- Scorchers’ Missteps: Poor execution in the final overs and a lackluster PowerPlay batting cost them dearly.
The Melbourne Renegades now look forward to their next challenge as they aim to carry this momentum deeper into the tournament.
