In the Knockout of Big Bash League (BBL) 2023-24, Perth Scorchers took on Adelaide Strikers with a motive to qualify for the Challenger. On a challenging track, the Strikers came up with a splendid all-round performance and defeated Scorchers by 50 runs. Strikers will now meet Brisbane Heat in the Challenger at Carrara Stadium in Gold Coast on January 22.
Jake Weatherald sizzles with the bat
Winning the toss, the Perth Scorchers opted to bowl first, setting the stage for an exciting clash. Adelaide Strikers posted a competitive total of 155/7 in their allotted 20 overs. Jake Weatherald was the standout performer for the Strikers, scoring a brilliant 56 runs off 32 balls, including 8 fours and 2 sixes.
Henry Thornton also contributed significantly with a quick 28 off 21 balls. However, the Scorchers’ bowlers put up a commendable effort, with Cooper Connolly leading the way by taking 2 wickets for just 17 runs in his 3 overs.
Lloyd Pope dismantles Perth Scorchers
In response, the Perth Scorchers faced a challenging target but struggled to build partnerships. Sam Fanning‘s aggressive innings of 31 off 20 balls and Connolly’s 31 off 22 balls were the only notable contributions.
The Adelaide Strikers’ bowlers dominated the proceedings, with Lloyd Pope being the pick of the bunch, claiming an impressive 4 wickets for 24 runs in his 4 overs. Cameron Boyce and Matthew Short also chipped in with crucial wickets. Ultimately, the Perth Scorchers were bowled out for 105 in 16.2 overs, falling short by 50 runs.
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Here is how Twitter reacted:
And with that victory…
The Strikers have a date with the Heat for the right to play the Sixers for #BBL13 glory 🏆 pic.twitter.com/sZatZF5CmV
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 20, 2024
The first #BBLFinals domino falls #BBL13 #OurCityOurTeam pic.twitter.com/gVYNw8a7xT
— Adelaide Strikers (@StrikersBBL) January 20, 2024
The redemption of Lloyd Pope has been one of the great stories of this Australian cricket summer #BBL13 @StrikersBBL
— Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) January 20, 2024
Lloyd Pope & Jake Weatherald 👏 what a win!
— Connor McMullen (@ConnorMcMullen1) January 20, 2024
Jake weatherald is so talented man. Love guy too. Met him in real life. Top bloke.
— AFCKabsy (@AFCKabsy) January 20, 2024
Jake Weatherald – a comeback you love to see. Clean striker and great to watch as a neutral. Shame nobody was there to go with him. Wish he could have squeezed another 20-30 runs #BBL13
— Alex TP (@bigpreston_69) January 20, 2024
4/24 for Lloyd Pope, what a day!#BBL13 pic.twitter.com/TUVq7ymhix
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) January 20, 2024
Lloyd Pope steers Adelaide Strikers to victory: https://t.co/mJ4hvecaRi #BBL13 #cricket #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/nu2LAR7oc9
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 20, 2024
If Shane Warne was the Sheik of Tweek, then Lloyd Pope is quickly becoming the Ninja of Ginger or the ‘Wrong ‘un of Red Heads’ #LloydPope #BBL13
— Scott (@ScottElderfiel1) January 20, 2024
Geez this Lloyd Pope kid looks alright, I wonder if there’s been any talk about him playing for Australia one day… #BBL13
— Aidan Edgecomb (@AidanEdgecomb6) January 20, 2024
I love Lloyd Pope. #BBL13
— Samuel Power 🇦🇺 (@SamuelPower68) January 20, 2024
Lloyd Pope’s wrong-un is MAGICAL 🪄 #BBL13
— Jack Molloy (@jackmolloy94) January 20, 2024
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