In a nail‑biting showdown at the WACA, the Perth Scorchers chased down Melbourne Stars’ 165 with 168‑6, winning by three runs. The victory lifts Perth to 18 points, securing the league’s top position and a home BBL Qualifier, while the Stars fall to second place.
Match Summary
The Stars posted 165/6 in 20 overs, anchored by a 45‑run partnership between Aaron Finch (27) and Tom Banton (38). Perth’s chase faltered early at 35/3, losing Mitchell Marsh for a duck and Cameron Green for 12. Finn Allen then exploded, scoring 78 off 49 balls and guiding the Scorchers to a five‑run win with two balls to spare.
Key Performances
- Finn Allen – 78 (49) balls, 5 fours, 3 sixes, SR 159.18
- Cameron Green – 45* (31) balls, 4 fours, 2 sixes, SR 145.16
- Murray Harvey – 1/24 (4 overs), economy 6.00 (Stars’ best bowler)
- Sean Abbott – 2/31 (4 overs), economy 7.75 (Scorchers’ most expensive bowler)
Ladder Impact
Before the match the Stars led with 16 points and a +0.421 NRR. The Scorchers sat one point behind with a +0.312 NRR. The win pushes Perth to 18 points and a superior +0.524 NRR, clinching the top spot with five games remaining, while Melbourne drops to 16 points in second place.
Why the Victory Matters
Finishing first grants the Scorchers a home Qualifier final at the WACA, giving them a strategic edge in the knockout phase. Coach Adam Voges highlighted the importance of sticking to their game plan—big hits in the middle overs and disciplined bowling—to secure this advantage.
Season Context
The 2025‑26 BBL season has featured tight races, with Perth and Melbourne posting win‑loss ratios above 80 %. After this encounter the head‑to‑head record stands 1‑0 in Perth’s favour, reversing the previous season’s result. The Scorchers’ balanced squad—Allen’s finishing, Green’s all‑round play, and Abbott’s experience—contrasts with the Stars’ reliance on Finch and Banton.
Looking Ahead
Perth faces the Hobart Hurricanes and Brisbane Heat in the next two rounds and must maintain momentum. Melbourne travels to Sydney for a crucial clash against the Sixers, a game that could either restore their lead or cement Perth’s dominance.
Conclusion
The thrilling three‑run victory not only adds three vital points but also gives the Scorchers the psychological edge of leading the BBL ladder heading into the final stretch. As the season nears its climax, the Perth‑Melbourne rivalry is set to shape the pathway to the championship.
