Nathan McSweeney Powers Brisbane Heat to Thrilling Last-Ball BBL Victory

WhatsApp Channel Button

Nathan McSweeney shone for Brisbane Heat in a gripping last-ball win over Adelaide Strikers in the 2024-25 Big Bash League. Despite being dropped from the Australian Test squad, the 25-year-old displayed remarkable composure with an unbeaten 78, steering his team to chase down 175 at the Gabba.

The Heat’s pursuit started shakily, losing Jimmy Peirson (8) and Colin Munro (7) early, but Matt Renshaw counterattacked with a blistering 54 off 27 balls. His 66-run partnership with McSweeney in just 39 deliveries set the foundation for the chase. Renshaw’s sublime shot-making included three towering sixes and elegant drives before being bowled by Lloyd Pope.

McSweeney, initially playing second fiddle to Renshaw, took charge in the power surge, hammering Henry Thornton for 16 runs and following up with a six off Matthew Short. His poise under pressure electrified the crowd of 23,681, culminating in Mitchell Swepson sealing the win with a single on the final ball.

Adelaide Strikers’ 174 for 6 was bolstered by Jamie Overton’s unbeaten 45 off 24 balls. The English allrounder used his towering 196cm frame to smash three sixes, unsettling Brisbane’s bowlers. Pope contributed a steady 34 off 29 but fell to McSweeney in the outfield.

Heat bowlers Xavier Bartlett and Will Prestwidge delivered key breakthroughs. Bartlett dismissed D’Arcy Short (1) and caught Chris Lynn (24) at long-on. Prestwidge impressed with figures of 2 for 16, removing Pope and Lynn during a crucial middle phase.

The match marked a significant comeback for McSweeney after his Test omission, underlining his character and skill in high-stakes situations.

ALSO READ: Stars Win Melbourne Derby with Duckett and Stoinis Leading the Charge