A strange and talking-point moment unfolded during a Big Bash League clash between the Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers at Docklands Stadium, where the closed roof unexpectedly became a major character in the match. With overcast conditions forcing officials to shut the roof, Finn Allen found himself at the centre of controversy when one of his shots struck it and dropped back into play, sparking confusion and debate among players and fans alike.
Perth Scorchers began their innings aggressively, with Allen and Mitchell Marsh taking full advantage of the conditions early on. The Renegades tried to stem the flow with changes in pace and spin, but Allen looked comfortable at the crease, finding gaps and clearing the infield as the powerplay unfolded.
The pivotal incident occurred in the seventh over when Allen attempted a big hit off Renegades skipper Will Sutherland. The ball soared high towards the leg-side, where Jake Fraser-McGurk appeared well-set for a routine catch. Instead, the ball collided with the roof and dropped straight down, immediately halting play and prompting a discussion between the umpires.
After deliberation, the officials ruled that the shot did not warrant a six and allowed only a single run, much to the frustration of the fielding side. Fraser-McGurk was visibly amused yet annoyed, gesturing that it would have been a simple dismissal if not for the roof’s interference. His reaction quickly became a highlight of the moment.
hits the ROOF! 😱🔥
— Zohaib (@Zohaibabarfan) January 15, 2026
Fraser-McGurk was sure Finn Allen’s shot was going straight to him… but it’s a dead ball! 🏏 #BBL15 #BBL pic.twitter.com/yN3VvYFMC2
Social media lit up soon after, with fans joking about “indoor cricket rules” and comparing the situation to box cricket scenarios. Many sympathised with the Renegades, while others enjoyed the sheer absurdity of a professional match being influenced by stadium architecture rather than skill alone.
While such roof-related incidents are not new at Docklands Stadium, they continue to divide opinion. Allen went on to capitalise on his slice of luck, but the episode once again raised questions about how unique playing conditions can alter the course of a game — and why they remain one of the most debated quirks of modern cricket.