Brisbane Heat defended 179 for 9 to claim a thrilling seven-run victory over Adelaide Strikers at the Gabba, showcasing nerves of steel despite a late scare. Max Bryant’s explosive 63 off 32 balls laid the foundation, while Xavier Bartlett’s sharp fielding and pivotal wicket ensured Heat secured their second win of the season.
The contest began cautiously for Heat, who were restricted by a disciplined Strikers bowling attack. Quick Hasan Ali was effective early, taking 2 for 36, but Bryant’s power-hitting helped rescue the innings from 98-5, forming a crucial 52-run partnership with Jimmy Peirson in the death overs. Jack Wildermuth and Matthew Renshaw provided glimpses of form, though both fell cheaply after early promise.
Chasing 180, Adelaide started positively, with Matthew Short blasting a risque 63 off 39 balls, featuring big sixes to keep Strikers in contention. Shaheen Shah Afridi, showing glimpses of rhythm, was forced off with a knee injury after three overs, leaving the Heat vulnerable in the final overs.
The game swung dramatically in the final powerplay. Short’s dismissal to Bartlett triggered a collapse, and debutant Thomas Balkin calmly sealed the win with two wickets in the final over, sending the Gabba crowd into rapturous celebrations. Bartlett also contributed with the ball, taking 3 for 26, highlighting Heat’s all-round strength.
Despite Short’s valiant effort with both bat and ball, Heat’s death-over composure and Bryant’s aggressive innings proved decisive. With their batting now finding form and the bowlers defending intelligently, Brisbane Heat look increasingly dangerous as the BBL season progresses.
