The Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 season has been nothing short of spectacular, with moments of brilliance that capture the essence of T20 cricket. One such moment came in a match between the Melbourne Stars and Adelaide Strikers, where England’s Ben Duckett pulled off one of the catches of the tournament.
Ben Duckett takes a mind-blowing catch of D Arcy Short
In an over that could have shifted the momentum decisively towards the Strikers, Duckett’s athleticism changed the course of the game. It happened on the fourth ball of the 14th over bowled by the veteran Peter Siddle. The seamer bowled an overpitched delivery outside off to D Arcy Short, a prolific scorer for the Strikers.
Short, looking to capitalize on the full delivery, cleared his front leg, bent his back leg, and thrashed the ball with intent, aiming to send it soaring over the covers for what seemed like a certain boundary. However, Duckett, stationed at extra cover, had different plans. He timed his jump to perfection, extending his right hand into the air, and plucked the ball out of thin air with what can only be described as a one-handed screamer.
Here is the video:
One of the best catches you will ever see in the BBL! 😱
Ben Duckett takes a SCREAMER! @BKTtires #GoldenMoment #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/JLhu3BQ0DZ
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 20, 2024
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Short guides Adelaide Strikers to a respectable total
At this point in the innings, the Adelaide Strikers were building a competitive total, with Short at the crease having scored 60 off 42 balls, showcasing his ability to anchor and accelerate the innings. Alex Ross supported him with 35 off 26 balls, setting up a potentially high-scoring total. The catch not only halted Short’s momentum but also sent a shockwave through the Strikers’ camp, eventually leading to their innings closing at 165/6.
Adam Milne, Peter Siddle star with the ball
The catch was not just a highlight for its sheer athleticism but also for its strategic importance. With Short’s dismissal, the momentum swung back to the Melbourne Stars, whose bowlers, Adam Milne (2/32) and Siddle (2/21), had been chipping away at the Strikers’ batting lineup.