The Big Bash League Qualifier between Perth Scorchers (PS) and Sydney Sixers (SS) on January 20 delivered a moment of sheer audacity when Finn Allen took on Mitchell Starc with a stroke that instantly became the talking point of the match. In a high-pressure game, Allen’s fearless approach underlined his intent to dominate from the outset.
Perth began their innings cautiously as the Sixers’ new-ball attack applied early pressure. Starc and Sean Abbott kept things tight, restricting scoring and testing the batters with pace and bounce. Allen, however, looked determined to break free and change the momentum.
The turning point arrived when Allen anticipated a fuller delivery from Starc. He moved across his stumps, momentarily exposing all three, and then executed a daring scoop over the wicketkeeper’s head. The ball sailed into the stands for a stunning six, leaving both the bowler and the crowd stunned.
That single shot lifted the energy in the stadium and injected confidence into the Scorchers’ innings. It also highlighted Allen’s bravery, as attempting such a stroke against a bowler of Starc’s calibre requires supreme belief and precise execution.
Facing Mitch Starc…
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 20, 2026
That's a super shot from Finn Allen 🫨 #BBL15 pic.twitter.com/aU5egc5qSx
Social media erupted almost instantly, with fans praising Allen’s guts and innovation. Many admired the confidence needed to try such a shot in a knockout match, calling it one of the boldest strokes of the tournament.
While the contest remained finely balanced, Allen’s scoop stood out as a defining moment of the clash. It served as a reminder of T20 cricket’s flair and unpredictability, where one fearless stroke can turn pressure into applause.