Brisbane Heat commenced their Big Bash League season in impressive fashion at the Gabba on Thursday, setting a formidable total of 214/3 after Melbourne Stars chose to field first. While the team received valuable contributions throughout their batting lineup, opener Colin Munro stood out with a commanding 61-ball innings, comprising nine boundaries and five towering sixes.
Munro’s heroic performance was the driving force behind Heat’s formidable total. Yet, his pursuit for a second BBL century concluded with a touch of disappointment when he fell agonizingly short by just one run, credit to Max Bryant’s precise finish to Heat’s innings.
Munro had accelerated to 95 by the 19th over. However, he couldn’t gather the necessary runs off two deliveries bowled by Nathan Coulter-Nile in the subsequent over, leaving him needing three from Joel Paris’ final over. With two singles achieved off the first three balls, Munro was left on 99, placing Max Bryant on strike.
With the pressure on, Bryant struck a boundary off a low full-toss, putting Munro within touching distance of a century. Unfortunately, Bryant, attempting to secure a single, unintentionally hit a four off the final delivery, prompting some disapproval from the crowd at the renowned Gabba.
How do you feel @HeatBBL fans?! Fast finish from Max Bryant but Colin Munro is stranded on 99 😵#BBL13 pic.twitter.com/qTp1E4zaVL
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 7, 2023
99* 👏
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 7, 2023
All class, Colin. @HeatBBL #BBL13 pic.twitter.com/OFQlz7Bok3
Munro displayed a sense of regret towards his teammate for missing out on the milestone. However, Bryant salvaged the moment by concluding the innings with another boundary before approaching Munro to offer congratulations and appreciation for his outstanding performance.