Stars Win Melbourne Derby with Duckett and Stoinis Leading the Charge

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The Melbourne Stars claimed a thrilling victory over the Melbourne Renegades in the BBL 2024-25 Melbourne Derby. Ben Duckett and Marcus Stoinis displayed brilliant batting on a tricky pitch, while Hilton Cartwright’s late-game heroics sealed the win. The Stars successfully chased down a target of 169 with five wickets in hand, keeping their finals hopes alive.

• Duckett scored a crucial 67 runs, while Stoinis contributed 48.
• Hilton Cartwright finished the game with a six and a boundary in the final over.
• Stars now lead the head-to-head record against the Renegades 17-10.

A Nail-Biting Finish

The Stars faced a tense final over needing ten runs. Tom Rogers, bowling for the Renegades, started with two perfect yorkers, leaving the Stars with eight runs required off four balls. However, Cartwright swung the momentum back, smashing a towering six followed by a boundary. This clutch performance secured the Stars’ second consecutive win and strengthened their position in the tournament.

Duckett and Stoinis Shine Under Pressure

The Stars’ chase started poorly at 41 for 3. Duckett and Stoinis then formed a solid 83-run partnership to stabilize the innings. Duckett, who had struggled with consistency this season, played a composed innings, while Stoinis attacked the bowlers with powerful strokes. Their partnership put the Stars in control until quick wickets created late tension.

Renegades Struggle Despite Promising Start

The Renegades set a competitive total of 168 for 7. Jacob Bethell top-scored with 49, while Jonathan Wells added a steady 45 runs. However, their middle-order collapse, coupled with disciplined bowling by the Stars, prevented them from setting a more challenging target.

Renegades’ Key Performers

• Bethell: 49 runs off 33 balls.
• Paris: 2 wickets for 23 runs.
• Tom Rogers: Economical bowling under pressure in the final over.

Stars’ Bowling Makes the Difference

The Stars’ bowling lineup ensured the Renegades couldn’t dominate. Gurinder Sandhu led the attack, claiming 3 wickets for 29 runs. His early breakthroughs and ability to maintain pressure played a vital role in restricting the Renegades’ total.

Head-to-Head Rivalry Tilts in Stars’ Favor

With this victory, the Stars now boast a commanding 17-10 record against the Renegades. This was the first game at the iconic MCG since the Boxing Day Test, and it delivered the excitement fans expected.

Highlights of the Rivalry

• Stars’ dominance with both bat and ball.
• Renegades’ struggles with consistency this season, holding a 2-4 record.
• Memorable performances from key players like Maxwell, Duckett, and Cartwright.

Stars’ Path Ahead

The Stars’ victory keeps their finals hopes alive. With momentum on their side and a strong lineup, they remain a serious contender in the tournament. Their next matches will test their ability to maintain this form.

Key Areas for Improvement:

1. Avoid early collapses in batting.
2. Tighten fielding to prevent unnecessary runs.
3. Consistency in middle-order contributions.

Match Summary