Shaun Marsh Guides Renegades to Victory in Aaron Finch’s Farewell Match

Shaun Marsh showcased his abilities by scoring an unbeaten 64 to lead the Renegades to a six-wicket victory over the Stars in the Melbourne derby at Marvel Stadium. This match marked the farewell game for Aaron Finch, who retired from professional cricket. Marsh’s innings was his 27th half-century in the Big Bash League, placing him only behind Finch and Chris Lynn.

The left-handed Marsh, supported by Jake Fraser-McGurk and Jono Wells, successfully chased down the target of 138 runs with 16 balls to spare. Renegades captain Finch received a guard of honor but was dismissed for a duck. The crowd of 41,205 spectators rose to their feet to applaud his career as he returned to the dressing room. Fraser-McGurk contributed with a solid knock of 42, while Stars’ Nathan Coulter-Nile claimed two crucial wickets during the run chase.

Prior to the chase, the Stars were restricted to 8-137 by an impressive bowling performance from Akeal Hosein, who finished with figures of 2-18. The Renegades’ Kane Richardson claimed two wickets, including the crucial dismissal of Glenn Maxwell. Despite some dropped catches and missed run-out opportunities, the Stars were guided by Hilton Cartwright’s 38 towards a defendable total.

Aaron Finch’s illustrious career, which included a World Cup title in 2015, a T20 World Cup triumph in 2021, and a BBL championship in 2019, was honored by the Renegades by retiring his No. 5 jersey. Finch expressed mixed emotions about his retirement, stating that he put everything into the club and is both sad and happy that it’s over. The Renegades, now in the seventh position on the BBL ladder, will face the Thunder in their next match at Sydney Showground.