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HOBART: A blistering century from Mitchell Marsh, backed by a ruthless unbeaten knock from Aaron Hardie, powered Perth Scorchers to a commanding 40-run victory over Hobart Hurricanes in their Big Bash League (BBL) 15 clash at Bellerive Oval on Thursday.
Put in to bat first, the Scorchers piled on a daunting 229 for 3, riding on an explosive third-wicket partnership that completely shifted the momentum in their favour.
Marsh and Hardie came together with the score at 53 for 2 inside the powerplay and went on to dismantle the Hurricanes’ bowling attack with authority.
The duo added 164 runs off just 84 balls, combining clean hitting with smart placement to keep the scoreboard racing.
Marsh led the charge with a commanding 102 off 58 deliveries, peppering the boundary with 11 fours and launching five sixes before falling in the final over.
Hardie, meanwhile, remained unbeaten on 94 from 43 balls, striking nine fours and five sixes in a brutal finishing act that left Hobart chasing a near-impossible target.
Nathan Ellis eventually broke the stand, but the damage had already been done as Perth surged to one of the highest totals of the season.
In reply, Hobart Hurricanes showed intent but never truly threatened the target, finishing on 189 for 9 from their 20 overs.
Nikhil Chaudhary provided late resistance with a quick 31 off 15 balls, while Matthew Wade (29) and Tim Ward (27) were the other notable contributors.
Perth’s bowling effort was led by captain Ashton Agar, who set the tone with a three-wicket haul.
Joel Paris and Hardie chipped in with two wickets each, while Cooper Connolly and Brody Couch claimed one apiece to ensure the Hurricanes were kept in check.
Despite the loss, Hobart Hurricanes remain second on the BBL 15 points table, with Perth Scorchers close behind in third, keeping the race for the top spots finely poised.
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