UPDATE: In a heart-pounding finish at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on January 1, 2026, Will Sutherland clinched the inaugural Melbourne Mace for the Melbourne Renegades by smashing a six on the penultimate ball, thrilling a record crowd of 68,124 spectators. This exciting victory over the Melbourne Stars marked a significant comeback following the disappointing Boxing Day Test.
The atmosphere at the MCG was electric as Sutherland’s dramatic hit sealed the match, leaving fans and players alike in disbelief. “Has he just dropped the mace?” exclaimed cricket legend Mike Hussey on Fox Sports, referencing a crucial dropped catch by Tom Curran that could have changed the game. The Stars needed only 16 runs off the final eight balls, but that dropped catch led to a tense finish.
In the last over, the Renegades required 13 runs to secure victory, having initially been in control at 1-127 after 14 overs chasing a target of 174 runs. Sutherland’s sixes, struck with the first and fifth balls, ensured the Stars would not add to their reputation for late-game collapses.
Meanwhile, Glenn Maxwell, despite being a pivotal player, stumbled again, scoring just one run after a disappointing start to 2026. His attempt to clear the boundary was thwarted by a clever delivery from left-arm spinner Hassan Khan, drawing concerns about his current form ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.
While Maxwell struggled, Josh Brown emerged as a standout performer, scoring 84 runs off 48 balls, including four sixes and eight fours. His aggressive batting kept the Renegades in the hunt and showcased his growth since playing third-grade cricket just a few years ago.
Fielding missteps were also part of the action, with Jake Fraser-McGurk having an off night. Despite a few errors, he displayed his potential with two catches and sharp fielding, saving runs for his team.
As the BBL season progresses, all eyes will be on Maxwell and the Renegades to see if they can maintain their momentum after this thrilling derby win at the MCG. With the T20 World Cup looming, every match is crucial for players to find their form.
Fans are buzzing about this unforgettable match, with social media lighting up as highlights circulate. Stay tuned for more updates as the BBL continues to deliver excitement and drama.
