On Sunday, January 12, tennis great Novak Djokovic attended the Big Bash League (BBL 2024–25) match between the Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades at Docklands Stadium. When Marcus Stoinis, an all-rounder for the Stars, hit a powerful ball that nearly struck the roof before settling into the clutches of the long-on fielder, the tennis icon was astounded.
Stoinis struck a slot delivery from Tom Rogers clean down the ground during the eighth over of the first inning. Kane Richardson didn’t have to budge an inch at long-on as the ball travelled far up in the air and nearly touched the roof before landing in his hands.
Many in the spectators were therefore shocked that the huge hit did not cross the boundary. Among them was undoubtedly Djokovic. The BBL’s official ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) account posted a video of the ejection, showing Djokovic’s response.
Here’s Novak Djokovic’s response to Marcus Stoinis’ shot:
Even @DjokerNole couldn’t believe this!
Marcus Stoinis gets caught after hitting a high ball, and Novak Djokovic reacts accordingly! #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/7eaGv3xLza
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 12, 2025
Djokovic is aiming to win his eleventh Australian Open championship when he is in Melbourne. He has clearly been enthralled with the dynamics of cricket and has been observed watching matches.
After falling behind at 75/7, the Melbourne Stars rallied to score 165 in the first innings. This followed Will Sutherland, the captain of the Renegades, winning the toss and choosing to field first. The Stars put up a fightable total thanks to Glenn Maxwell’s brilliant knock, which saw him smash 90 off 52 balls.
In response, Renegades was bowled out for 123 after losing wickets at frequent intervals. With the ball in his possession, Mark Steketee was the highlight of the match, finishing with figures of 5/17 in four overs. Joel Paris also scored three points. Beau Webster and Peter Siddle each took one wicket in the interim.
India
