In a match against the Sydney Thunder last December, T20 veteran Chris Lynn’s advice to Strikers duo Wes Agar and Henry Thornton set the stage for an extraordinary turn of events. Defending a modest total of 139, Lynn’s simple message—”Stand the seam up and it will do things. Just hit the wicket hard and hit a good length”—ushered in a breathtaking display that will forever be etched in cricketing history.
The ensuing sequence became one of cricket’s most stunning bowling performances witnessed worldwide. In just 5.5 overs, Adelaide bowled out the Thunder for a mere 15 runs at the Sydney Showground Stadium, leaving spectators awe-struck.
Looking back on this remarkable feat as the Strikers prepare for BBL13, Wes Agar reflected on the surreal moment that defied conventional cricket wisdom. Thornton claimed figures of 5-3, while Agar secured 4-6, sealing a resounding 124-run victory.
Agar likened the experience to those recounted by legendary sports figures in documentaries, describing a state of intense focus where thoughts were crystal clear yet elusive to recall afterward. He emphasized the precision of intent, where their intentions translated seamlessly into outcomes—an occurrence previously unprecedented in his career.
The collapse commenced when Matt Gilkes seemingly found a gap, only for a spectacular catch by Adam Hose to change the tide. Thereafter, the Strikers’ bowlers transformed into juggernauts, reminiscent of cricketing greats Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thomson, claiming the next nine wickets. Short’s catch to dismiss Rilee Rossouw became an instant classic, encapsulating the essence of the team’s outstanding performance.
Reflecting on the match, Agar acknowledged both luck and skill, citing the Thunder’s run of misfortune where even slightest edges found fielders’ hands. He attributed their success to Lynn’s sage advice to focus on standing the seam up and hitting a good length, an approach that remarkably paid off.
Building on a strong BBL campaign and overcoming a brief back injury, Agar’s impressive performances in the 2023/24 Sheffield Shield—20 wickets at an average of 19.7—underscore his form and determination. With aspirations to guide the Strikers back to the finals, Agar seeks to translate his Shield success into the BBL.
Having already represented Australia in ODIs in 2021, Agar remains steadfast in his pursuit of higher honors, eyeing a potential surprise selection for the 2024 World Cup squad. His hunger for consistent performance and dedication to his craft drive his ambition to wear the Australian colors again.
