Renegades Edge Scorchers in Thrilling Low-Scoring Encounter
Melbourne Renegades claimed a thrilling two-wicket win over Perth Scorchers, chasing down 144 with an over to spare in a tense finish. It was their first victory over the Scorchers since December 2020, ending a six-match losing streak.
Cooper Connolly’s 66 off 50 balls was the highlight for the Scorchers, but it wasn’t enough to lift them to a competitive total. Perth could only manage 143/8 in their 20 overs, with just two batters—Connolly and Matthew Spoors (29)—making double-digit contributions. Renegades’ pacers set the tone early, with Keaton Jennings and Finn Allen dismissed in the opening overs. Josh Inglis and Ashton Turner followed soon after, as the Scorchers struggled to build partnerships. Tom Rogers was the standout bowler, taking 3 wickets for 22 runs.
In response, Renegades faced early setbacks, losing Jake Fraser-McGurk in the first over, followed by quick dismissals of Josh Brown and Tim Seifert. Jacob Bethell (30) and Laurie Evans added a vital 54-run partnership, but the Renegades’ chase was aided by multiple dropped catches, missed run-outs, and narrow chances. Despite the low target, the Scorchers' fielding errors allowed Renegades to stay on track. Jason Behrendorff took two wickets for 33 runs, but the Renegades managed to reach 144/8 in 19 overs, securing the win.
Brief Scores:
- Perth Scorchers: 143/8 in 20 overs (Cooper Connolly 66, Matthew Spoors 29; Tom Rogers 3-22)
- Melbourne Renegades: 144/8 in 19 overs (Jacob Bethell 30, Tim Seifert 28; Jason Behrendorff 2-33)Result: Renegades won by 2 wickets
