Perth Scorchers dominated day one of their Big Bash League showdown with Adelaide Strikers, racking up 232 for 7 after Mitch Marsh’s breathtaking 96 nearly delivered a century. The all-rounder’s knock, laced with ferocious hitting, propelled his side to what could be a match-winning total on a batsman-friendly Perth pitch.
The innings exploded from the outset. Sam Whiteman and Keaton Jennings laid a solid platform with 53 in 4.4 overs before Jennings holed out. Marsh then arrived, treating bowlers with disdain—lofted covers, slog-sweeps, and helicopter shots flowed freely. He raced to his fifty in 23 balls, dominating spinners and pacers alike.
Dismissed six shy of three figures, caught off a top-edged pull, Marsh’s exit sparked a brief wobble. But Turner (41* off 19) and Aaron Hardie steadied nerves, adding crucial late runs. Evans’ 32 off 17 complemented the surge. Strikers’ fielding errors, including two dropped catches, proved costly.
Now, Adelaide Strikers confront 233 on a ground where Scorchers have won 80% of night games. Captain Matt Short and Jake Weatherald must fire, but Scorchers’ death bowling remains lethal. BBL 2024 heats up with this blockbuster.
