Sam Billings delivered a match-winning performance, scoring a rapid 72 runs, as the Sydney Thunder defeated the Melbourne Stars by 18 runs in a recent Big Bash League encounter. The Thunder's victory propels them to third place in the league standings, while the Stars remain winless and at the bottom of the table.
Billings' explosive innings, which included nine boundaries and two sixes, anchored the Thunder's total of 182-8. His aggressive batting was supported by Jason Sangha's contribution of 33 runs. Notably, Billings received a reprieve early in his innings as a run-out chance was not appealed by the Stars.
In response, the Stars mounted a chase led by England opener Ben Duckett, who compiled 67 runs off 49 balls. Duckett's effort, however, was ultimately insufficient. Crucial wickets fell at regular intervals, including key dismissals of Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell, which disrupted the Stars' momentum.
Despite a late push, the Stars' lower order crumbled under pressure from the Thunder's bowling attack. Wes Agar's three wickets in the 19th over effectively sealed the victory for the Thunder. The result sees the Sydney Thunder securing their second win in three matches, contrasting sharply with the Melbourne Stars' five consecutive defeats.
