Wed Dec 31 12:30:00 UTC 2025: Adelaide Strikers Crush Brisbane Heat, Break New Year’s Eve Jinx
Adelaide, Australia – The Adelaide Strikers delivered a dominant performance at Adelaide Oval on New Year’s Eve, dismantling the Brisbane Heat by seven wickets and breaking their long-standing losing streak on the holiday. A combination of fiery bowling and a vintage Chris Lynn batting display propelled the Strikers into the top four of the Big Bash League standings.
After winning the toss and electing to bowl, the Strikers’ pace attack immediately put the Heat under pressure. Liam Scott (2/12) and Jamie Overton (3/19) ripped through the Brisbane top order, leaving them reeling at 5/21 within the powerplay. A direct-hit run-out by Lynn further compounded the Heat’s woes, sending danger-man Matt Renshaw back to the pavilion.
Late resistance from Hugh Weibgen (28) and Matthew Kuhnemann (31*), including three sixes from Kuhnemann, helped the Heat limp to a meager total of 121.
However, the Strikers’ run chase was a masterclass, orchestrated by Chris Lynn. While Matthew Short and Mackenzie Harvey fell cheaply, Lynn remained steadfast, blazing his way to an unbeaten 79 off just 41 balls. His innings, featuring six boundaries and six towering sixes, not only guided the Strikers to victory but also saw him become the first player in BBL history to surpass 4,000 career runs, and 1000 runs for the Strikers.
Lynn ruthlessly attacked the Heat’s spinners, particularly during the Power Surge, effectively ending the contest with a barrage of boundaries. Liam Scott (7*) provided valuable support, as the Strikers reached their target of 122 with 35 balls to spare, securing a crucial win and significantly boosting their net run rate.
Brief Scores:
Brisbane Heat 121 all out in 19.4 overs (Matthew Kuhnemann 31, Hugh Weibgen 28; Jamie Overton 3-19, Liam Scott 2-12, Hasan Ali 2-29) lost to Adelaide Strikers 125/3 in 14.1 overs (Chris Lynn 79*) by 7 wickets.
First Piper 