WATCH: Doug Warren’s frosty celebration after dismissing Sam Billings in BBL|14 Eliminator

In the eliminatory match of the Big Bash League (BBL) | 14 between Sydney Thunderstorm i Melbourne Starsfans at the Sydney Showground Stadium were treated to some unforgettable moments in the first innings of the match. Among the highlights of the game was a special celebration of the Melbourne Stars spinner Doug Warren after taking the crucial wicket of Sydney Thunder’s keeper-batsman Sam Billings.

Doug Warren’s Frozen Celebration

The wicket came in the 12th over of Sydney Thunder’s innings. Warren, with his sharp spin, provided a crucial moment when he dismissed Billings for 24 runs (from 25 balls). Billings, who had been the Thunder’s batsman, was crucial to his team, and his dismissal dealt a blow to their hopes of posting a substantial total. It was the reverse sweep that led to Billings’ downfall.

Despite making good contact with the ball, he unintentionally hit it directly Tom Curranlocated in a deep point behind. The catch was well executed by Curran who took a low catch without any fuss. Billings’ departure left the Thunder reeling as the Stars celebrated their breakthrough. Billings’ score included four boundaries, but it wasn’t enough to keep him in the middle for longer.

Here is the video:

Cold celebration 🥶

Doug Warren is PUMPED with this port of Sam Billings. #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/fJhEPRQxM1

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 22, 2025

Also READ: Reactions on Twitter: Hobart Hurricanes head into finals after defeating Sydney Sixers in BBL|14 Qualifier

Tom Curran’s early strike: David Warner goes for a duck

Earlier in the match, Melbourne Stars bowler Curran made his mark in the first over of the Thunder’s innings. The stars got off to an ideal start when David Warnerone of the biggest threats in the Thunder’s lineup, was sacked for a duck. Warner, known for his aggressive style, was caught by the skipper Marcus Stoinis after attempting a cut shot off Curran’s delivery.

The ball appeared to have stopped on Warner, leaving him unable to control the shot, which went straight into the hands of Stoinis at cover. Warner’s first wicket sent shockwaves through the Thunder’s outfield, and the Stars were delighted to get rid of such a dangerous player so quickly. It was an inspired decision by Stars management to have Curran bowl first, a move that paid immediate dividends.

It’s a duck for David Warner!

Tom Curran strikes in the first over for the @StarsBBL. #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/V4yqLuAl3b

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 22, 2025

Curran strikes again

As the Thunder tried to recover, Curran again bowled at 18, this time hitting one more layoff. Oliver Davies for 36 (from 35 balls). Davies had played a key role in keeping the Thunder’s innings alive with two boundaries and a six, but his exit came at a crucial time.

Curran bowled a clever ball with the back of the slower hand, which fell on the full length and completely fooled Davies. Unaware of the slower delivery, Davies took a high shot but missed it, sending the ball straight into the distance, where Peter Handscomb he did not make a mistake in completing the catch.

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