Melbourne Stars Archives

Hurricanes eliminate Haris Rauf’s Stars in rain-hit BBL 15 knockout

HOBART: Defending champions Hobart Hurricanes kept their hopes of consecutive titles alive with a thrilling win over Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League (BBL) 15 knockout.

Chasing 85 as per the DLS method in seven overs, the Stars fell short in the final over despite Hilton Cartwright giving them hope.

Melbourne Stars chase started on a shaky note with opener Thomas Rogers sent back in the second over. He made four from six balls.

After an early wicket, Joe Clarke and Sam Harper steadied the innings with a 36-run partnership. The pair brought the total to 41 in 4.3 overs with Clarke’s dismissal derailing the chase.

The right-hander made 31 off 17 with the help of four boundaries and a six. He was soon followed by Harper (10), who could not get going and was eventually retired out.

Nonetheless, with 26 required of Mitchell Owen’s final over, Marcus Stoinis tonked the first ball for a maximum, followed by a wide delivery.

Stoinis was bowled on the third ball, which brought Hilton Cartwright to the crease with the Stars requiring 19 from four.

With an uphill task to climb, Hilton Cartwright revived hopes by striking the next two balls for fours and then smashing a length ball for six, leaving the equation to five off the final ball.

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However, Owen held his nerve and fired in a wide yorker, from which Cartwright could manage only a single.

For Hobart Hurricanes, Riley Meredith picked up two wickets.

Earlier, put into bat first, Hurricanes racked up 114-5 in their allotted 10 overs.

Mitchell Owen was stumped in the first over for seven as Tim Ward and Beau Webster stabilized the innings with a brisk 30-run partnership.

Haris Rauf broke through for Stars with the wicket of Ward, who scored 10 from 10. The dismissal followed another quick wicket of skipper Ben McDermott, who departed for 12.

As a result, Hurricanes were reduced to 54-3 in 5.3 overs.

However, it was Beau Webster’s knock that held the innings together and laid a foundation for a winning total.

He was involved with a 37-run stand off 20 balls with Nikhil Chaudhary, which brought the total to 91 in 8.5 overs.

Chaudhary made 24 off 11 with the help of three sixes while Webster departed on the second last ball of the innings after top scoring with 47 from 27, striking three fours and three maximums.

For Melbourne Stars, Haris Rauf remained the standout bowler as he took two wickets.

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Finn Allen seals top spot for Perth Scorchers with Melbourne Stars win

PERTH: Finn Allen continued his red-hot form as Perth Scorchers secured a six-wicket win over Melbourne Stars to finish atop the Big Bash League (BBL) 15 standings on Saturday.

The top-of-the-table clash in Perth was set up with both teams on 12 points, with a chance to end the group stage at the summit.

Scorchers made the most of the opportunity, finishing with 14 points and leaving Melbourne Stars behind on 12, while Hobart Hurricanes sit second with 13 points.

The fourth playoff spot will be decided on Sunday when the Sydney Sixers take on the Brisbane Heat.

Scorchers won the toss and opted to bowl, a decision that paid immediate dividends.

Melbourne Stars struggled against a disciplined Perth attack and were bundled out for 130 in 18.2 overs.

Jhye Richardson led the charge with a four-wicket haul, supported by David Payne and Cooper Connolly, who took two wickets each.

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The Stars’ batting lineup failed to fire, with only captain Marcus Stoinis offering resistance.

Stoinis produced a valiant 55 off 39 balls, including five fours and two sixes, but lacked support from the rest of the lineup.

Campbell Kellaway (19) and Hilton Cartwright (13) were the only other batters to reach double figures.

Chasing 131, Scorchers lost early momentum as Haris Rauf ran through the top order, picking up three wickets and reducing Perth to 26-3 in 4.1 overs.

But Finn Allen held his nerve and steadied the innings. He found a strong partner in Aaron Hardie, and the duo stitched a crucial 94-run partnership for the fourth wicket.

Allen led the chase with a 39-ball 69, smashing seven sixes and two fours, before falling to Peter Siddle with just 11 runs required.

Hardie then took charge, remaining unbeaten on 41 off 37 balls, guiding Scorchers to victory with plenty of time to spare.

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Curran’s four-fer routs Hasan Ali’s Strikers out of BBL 15

MELBOURNE: Tom Curran’s career-best bowling figures helped Melbourne Stars crush Hasan Ali Adelaide Strikers in the 34th fixture of the Big Bash League (BBL) 15 here at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Tuesday.

Stars chased down a mere 84-run target in 15.1 overs, losing four wickets in the process, keeping their hopes alive for reaching the BBL finals.

After the defeat, Adelaide Strikers were eliminated with three wins out of nine games.

Although Stars started the chase cautiously, they eventually reached home with Thomas Rogers top-scoring with 32 from 40 with the help of two fours.

Sam Harper and Campbell Kellaway were sent packing for nine and duck, respectively, in the first three overs, which provided Adelaide Strikers with a glimmer of hope.

However, Blake Macdonald and Rogers’ 30-run partnership made light work of the chase.

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The scorecard read 43-3 in 8.3 overs when skipper Marcus Stoinis arrived at the crease and hit a 23 off 20 before getting retired hurt.

For Adelaide Strikers, Liam Scott picked up two wickets.

Earlier, Melbourne Stars capitalized on the decision to bowl first as Curran led the attack, skittling Adelaide Strikers for 83 in 19.3 overs.

It was Tom Curran’s burst with the new ball that broke the back of Stikers batting lineup.

The right-arm pacer kept the Strikers on their toes as they were reduced to 21-4 at the end of the powerplay.

The Strikers could not get going despite a brief partnership of 19 between Jamie Overton and Liam Scott that brought the score near 40 run mark.

However, Curran sparked a collapse that the Strikers never recovered from.

For Melbourne Stars, Tom Curran earned the player of the match award, scalping four in his quota of four overs while giving away only 10. Mitchell Swepson also chipped in with the ball, with three wickets to his name.

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BBL 15: Harper, Rogers power Stars past Renegades in Melbourne derby

Sam Harper and Thomas Rogers struck commanding half-centuries as Melbourne Stars cruised to a dominant win over the Renegades in the Big Bash League (BBL) 15 derby at Docklands Stadium on Saturday.

Stars captain Marcus Stoinis won the toss and opted to bowl, a decision that paid dividends early when Tom Curran removed in-form opener Tim Seifert for three in the second over.

Josh Brown attempted to anchor the Renegades innings and kept the scoreboard ticking despite wickets falling at regular intervals.

Hassan Khan and Mohammad Rizwan offered brief resistance with 23 and 21, respectively, but Brown remained the lone bright spot before he was trapped lbw by Peter Siddle in the 18th over.

Brown top-scored with a fighting 80 off 50 balls, which included seven fours and four sixes, as the Renegades posted 166-7 in their 20 overs.

Stoinis led the bowling effort with three wickets, while Haris Rauf claimed two. Curran and Siddle chipped in with one apiece to keep the Renegades in check.

In reply, the Stars made a flying start through Harper and Rogers, who added 84 runs in just 45 balls for the opening wicket.

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Rogers played the aggressor, smashing a rapid 53 off 24 deliveries, featuring four fours and four sixes, before a mix-up led to his dismissal.

Campbell Kellaway’s stay was short-lived, and his departure brought Glenn Maxwell to the crease.

Maxwell combined with Harper in an unbroken 78-run partnership that took the game away from the Renegades.

Harper anchored the chase with an unbeaten 84 off 51 balls, striking eight fours and four sixes, as the Stars sealed an eight-wicket victory with 25 balls to spare.

The result lifted Melbourne Stars from third to second place on the BBL 15 points table, strengthening their push for a playoff berth.

The Renegades, meanwhile, remained seventh despite suffering defeat after back-to-back wins. While their position leaves little margin for error, they are still mathematically in contention heading into their remaining fixtures.

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BBL 15: Haris Rauf shines as undefeated Stars crush Thunder

CANBERRA: Haris Rauf continued his impressive run in the Big Bash League (BBL) 15 as Melbourne Stars romped to a nine-wicket victory over Sydney Thunder in the 14th fixture of the tournament here at the Manuka Oval on Sunday.

Set a partly 129, Stars aced the chase inside 14 overs, losing only one wicket in the process.

Joe Clarke and Sam Harper came out firing all cylinders, adding 86 in 9.4 overs, which made the competition a one-sided affair.

Clarke remained the core aggressor, top scoring with 60 off 37 with the help of eight fours and a six.

Sam Harper unbeaten 29 off 27, including two fours, whereas Glenn Maxwell also got going with a quick-fire 39* from 20, striking five fours and two sixes.

For Sydney Thunder, Chris Green remained the solitary wicket-taker.

Earlier, Haris Rauf led bowling attack bundled out the Sydney Thunder for a modest 128 at the end of their 20 overs.

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After a decent start, Rauf removed Matthew Gilkes for 24 to give Stars an opening. The opener hit a six and two fours before getting caught.

Soon after, Sam Konstas was sent back as well after managing just 11 from 15 balls. The hiccup reduced them to 39-2 in 5.1 overs as veteran batter David Warner arrived at the crease in a bid to stabilize the innings.

Warner and Cameron Bancroft added only 16 before both were dismissed in quick succession to leave Thunder in disarray.

Catch Big Bash League (BBL) 15 news updates here!

As a result, Thunder were 63-4 in 9.5 overs before a brief partnership of 27 between Sam Billings and Shadab Khan took their score to near the 100-run mark.

However, Thunder had a similar plot: losing quick wickets in a short span of time that could get their innings going, and eventually the whole team was bundled out for a modest score.

Shadab remained the top scorer with 25 off 24 with the aid of two fours, whereas Sam Billings hit two fours and a six in his 23 from 19 balls.

For Melbourne Stars, Haris Rauf picked up three in his four overs, while Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Swepson, and Tom Curran were equally good with two wickets to their name.

With this, the Melbourne Stars extended their undefeated run, winning four out of four games, and are at the top of the points table.

READ: Haris Rauf lights up BBL 15 with fiery spell

BBL 15: Haris Rauf’s three-fer helps Stars ease past Strikers

ADELAIDE: Pacer Haris Rauf delivered a fiery three-wicket spell to lead Melbourne Stars to a six-wicket win over Adelaide Strikers in the 10th match of Big Bash League (BBL) 15 here at the Adelaide Oval on Tuesday.

Set 156, Stars chased down the target on four wickets with 11 balls to spare.

Sam Harper remained the top scorer, scoring 55 from 36 balls with the help of five fours and two sixes.

Skipper Marcus Stoinis remained the other notable contributor with 32* from 22 to his name. The right-hander hit three fours and a six in his brisk knock.

Catch Big Bash League (BBL) 15 news updates here!

Melbourne Stars were off to a flyer as they posted 67 at the end of the powerplay, losing just one wicket in the process. Joe Clarke hit two fours before getting dismissed on 23.

Meanwhile, Harper continued to charge and stitched a brief 23-run partnership with Campbell Kellaway. The duo brought the total to 90 in 9.5 overs.

However, Hasan Ali took two crucial wickets in quick succession to jolt Stars in the chase. The right-arm pacer first removed well-set Harper, followed by the big wicket of Glenn Maxwell for two to reduce them to 96-3 in 11.3 overs.

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But Marcus Stoinis remained till the end to ensure his side crossed the finishing line. He added 37 and 28* run stands with Campbell Kellaway and Hilton Cartwright to take his side home.

For Stars, Hasan Ali remained the pick of the bowlers, managing to take two wickets in his three overs.

Earlier, after being given the opportunity to bat first, the home side Adelaide Strikers were unable to post a big total as they ended their innings on 155 for 8 in 20 overs.

Tom Curran ripped through their top order, removing Chris Lynn and Jason Sangha in the second over to put his side on top.

After an early hiccup, skipper Matthew Short batted with responsibility, crafting a 55-run partnership with Liam Scott to take the score to 62-3 in 7.5 overs.

The stand culminated with Scott’s wicket, trapped lbw by Stoinis for 25, despite it being another 48-run partnership that carried them over the 100-run mark, before a middle-order collapse saw them reeling.

Alex Ross and Short brought the total to 110 in 13.4 overs as Curran removed the latter, who top-scored with 56 from 42 with the help of four boundaries.

Eventually, the home side were limited to a below-par total at the end of their innings.

For Stars, Haris Rauf and Tom Curran combined and shared six wickets between them.

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Top End T20 series: Rogers’ century powers Melbourne Stars to thrilling win

DARWIN: Thomas Rogers produced a sensational century to guide Melbourne Stars Academy to a thrilling seven-wicket victory over Hobart Hurricanes Academy in the Top End T20 Series clash at Marrara Cricket Ground No. 2 on Saturday.

Chasing a daunting 228, the Stars crossed the line on the final ball of the innings when Liam Blackford, facing his very first delivery, struck the winning boundary after Jonathan Merlo was dismissed on the penultimate ball with scores level.

The chase was set up brilliantly by skipper Sam Harper and Rogers, who added 142 runs for the opening wicket in just 12 overs.

Harper struck a 35-ball 50 before being run out at the start of the 13th over, bringing Campbell Kellaway to the crease.

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Kellaway played a supporting role as Rogers went on the attack, reaching his century and dominating a 61-run stand that took the Stars past 200.

Rogers’ innings finally ended in the 18th over when Bradley Hope dismissed him for a dazzling 128 off 65 deliveries, laced with 20 fours and three sixes.

Blake Macdonald managed nine runs before falling cheaply, while Kellaway remained unbeaten on 27 from 16 balls, ensuring stability at the other end before Blackford finished the job in style.

Earlier, Hobart Hurricanes Academy had posted a mammoth 227-3 after electing to bat.

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Doug Warren struck early for the Stars, bowling out Raf MacMillan for just three, but Bradley Hope and Will Prestwidge counter-attacked with a 55-run stand. Prestwidge smashed 37 off 19 before falling to Hamish McKenzie.

Hope then stitched another rapid 57-run partnership with Macalister Wright, who scored 40 off 20. McKenzie again broke the stand, but Tim Ward’s arrival kept the momentum intact.

Hope carried his bat with an unbeaten 81 off 51 balls, hitting 12 fours and two sixes, while Ward blazed 57 not out off 27 deliveries, featuring three boundaries and four sixes, to propel Hurricanes Academy to 227-3.

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Melbourne Stars GM reveals reason behind Haris Rauf’s selection for BBL 15

Melbourne Stars General Manager Max Abbott has revealed the key reason behind the selection of Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf for the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025.

In an exclusive interview with ARY News, Abbott shed light on the selection of Pakistani players in the BBL 15 draft, particularly Haris Rauf for Melbourne Stars.

“We have retained Haris Rauf in the green team squad. Melbourne Stars needed a bowler who could bowl with 150 km/h pace because nowadays you don’t find too many bowlers bowling with that speed,” he said.

“Our squads’ local and overseas players love Haris Rauf playing in the BBL. One of the fierce battles will be between Babar Azam and Haris Rauf in the upcoming edition of BBL 15,” he added.

Moreover, Max Abbott also stated that many Pakistani players have fond memories of the 1992 World Cup, which was held in Australia.

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The Pakistan cricket team has great memories of the 1992 World Cup held in Australia. During that time, Pakistan and Australia had very memorable encounters,” Abbott said.

“When the Australian team toured Pakistan, it was suitable for everyone. Pakistani fans love the Australian player, Melbourne Stars GM added.

Regarding the Melbourne Stars’ plan to visit Pakistan for exhibition matches, he elaborated that it all depends on the players’ availability and an invitation from Pakistan.

“Currently, there are no plans to tour Pakistan with our team. Players’ availability and other matters also need to be considered. Players are presently busy with the season. However, we can consider receiving an invitation from Pakistan, he concluded.

For the unversed, in 22 BBL matches, Haris Rauf has bagged 36 wickets at an economy of 7.75, and remains one of the most dangerous bowlers at the death.

Rauf’s retention comes amid a strong Pakistan presence in BBL 15, with Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shadab Khan, and Hasan Ali all picked up by various franchises during the draft.

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Melbourne Stars GM eyes Haris Rauf vs Babar Azam showdown in BBL 15

Melbourne Stars General Manager Max Abbott has made it clear that retaining Haris Rauf for BBL Season 15 was a top priority, revealing that the franchise fended off strong interest from rival teams to keep the Pakistani speedster on their roster.

In a candid statement following the BBL 15 overseas draft, Abbott confirmed that Adelaide Strikers had targeted Rauf but were forced to back off after the Stars refused to release him.

“Haris Rauf is a fan favourite and a valuable asset to our team,” Abbott said. “We knew other teams were interested in him, but we weren’t willing to let him go.”

Abbott lauded Rauf’s impact beyond the field, calling him a key figure in the dressing room and a role model for younger bowlers.

“He’s not just a match-winner. He’s someone other bowlers learn from. That’s why keeping him was non-negotiable for us,” he stated.

But all eyes are now on the mouth-watering clash against the Sydney Sixers, who have signed Babar Azam as a pre-draft marquee pick. Abbott didn’t shy away from the hype surrounding the Pakistan stars’ face-off.

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“We’re excited to see Haris Rauf take on Babar at the MCG. I’m sure he has a few plans up his sleeve to exploit Babar’s weaknesses,” said Abbott.

He also acknowledged the influence of the Pakistani community in Melbourne, calling Rauf’s popularity a big plus for the team’s fan engagement.

“The Pakistan community is huge here, and it’s great to have their favourite player in the Stars colours. He brings excitement and pride with every appearance.”

Haris Rauf, who is currently featuring in MLC 2025 for the San Francisco Unicorns, has been with the Stars since 2019.

In 22 BBL matches, he has bagged 36 wickets at an economy of 7.75, and remains one of the most dangerous bowlers at the death.

Rauf’s retention comes amid a strong Pakistan presence in BBL 15, with Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shadab Khan and Hasan Ali all picked up by various franchises during the draft.

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Melbourne Stars reintroduce Pakistan fan zone for BBL 14

The Melbourne Stars have announced that the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) will once again feature a dedicated Pakistan fan zone during the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) 14.

This initiative coincides with the return of talented Pakistan spinner Usama Mir to the Stars’ lineup, creating an even more vibrant atmosphere for his dedicated fans.

Mir played for the Melbourne Stars in the previous season too, taking five wickets over the course of five matches.

The dedicated fan zone, aptly named “Pakistan Bay,” will serve as a vibrant gathering spot for fans to come together, celebrate, and cheer on the Melbourne Stars during their home games.

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Memberships for these exclusive fan zones are now available for the first four home matches, scheduled for December 18, January 4, January 9, and January 19.

These exciting new initiatives are in alignment with Cricket Australia’s (CA) Multicultural Action Plan, which aims to foster inclusivity and provide brilliant experiences for cricket fans from diverse backgrounds.

For the unversed, CA set up similar fan zones during Pakistan’s recent tour of Australia for the six-match white-ball series in November.

The Melbourne Stars will kick off their BBL 14 campaign on December 15 against the Perth Scorchers in the season opener. Meanwhile, the grand finale of BBL 14 will be played on January 27, 2025.

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