Serbian tennis superstar Novak Djokovic attended the 32nd match of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 between Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades at Docklands Stadium in Melbourne.
Novak Djokovic left shocked after Marcus Stoinis dismissal
Djokovic enjoyed the exciting match, which was full of explosive hitting and flurry of boundaries. However, a a moment came in the match which left Djokovic and the crowd in complete disbelief. During the eighth over, Marcus Stoinis unleashed a powerful shot off Tom Rogers' bowling. The ball soared high into the air, seemingly destined for the roof of the stadium.
To the astonishment of everyone, including Djokovic, the ball descended within the boundary, where Kane Richardson expertly caught it at long-on. Stoinis's disbelief at being dismissed after such a mighty hit was evident, and even Djokovic couldn't help but shake his head in amazement.
Notably, Novak Djokovic, currently in Melbourne to compete in the Australian Open, was visibly impressed by Marcus Stoinis's powerful shot. Djokovic, a three-time Australian Open champion, had a disappointing semi-final exit last year and will be eager to reclaim the title this year.
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Talking about the match, Melbourne Renegades won the toss and elected to field first at their home ground. They made an early impact, dismissing wicketkeeper Sam Harper. This was followed by the quick dismissals of Ben Duckett, leaving the Stars struggling at 75/7. Despite the early setbacks, skipper Marcus Stoinis provided a brief burst of energy with a quickfire 18 runs. However, it was Glenn Maxwell who truly ignited the innings with a brilliant counter-attacking display.
Glenn Maxwell, batting alongside Usama Mir, played a crucial role in steering the Melbourne Stars' innings. He consistently retained strike, allowing Mir to play a supporting role. Maxwell's magnificent knock of 90 runs off just 52 deliveries, highlighted by four fours and ten sixes, propelled his team to a total of 165. His innings was widely praised for its entertainment value and is considered one of the most memorable knocks in the tournament's history.
In response, the Melbourne Renegades got off to a shaky start, losing early wickets. Fast bowlers Mark Steketee and Joel Paris ripped through the Renegades' batting lineup, reducing them to 44/4. While Tim Seifert and Will Sutherland briefly steadied the innings with a partnership, the loss of Sutherland triggered another collapse.
The Renegades continued to lose wickets at a rapid pace and were eventually bowled out for 123 with one ball remaining. Left-arm seamer Joel Paris picked three wickets for 13 runs in his four overs, while Mark Steketee finished with an impressive haul of 5/17 in his spell.