T20 Big Bash: Melbourne Stars too strong for Hobart Hurricanes

Tim Paine: Was the top scorer from either side as he racked up 46

Cameron White: Scored 22 to help Melbourne Stars home

Melbourne Stars claimed their second straight win in the T20 Big Bash League after seeing off Hobart Hurricanes by four wickets at the MCG.

After being put into bat the Hurricanes compiled a total of 134-8 as Clint McKay claimed three wickets at the top of the order, including top-scorer Tim Paine (46).

A second-wicket partnership of 57 between Rob Quiney (35) and Brad Hodge (34) set the Stars up well to chase down the target with something to spare.

But a smart bowling effort from Ben Laughlin (3-14) ensured the hosts had to endure a nervy finish before finally closing things out in the final over.

The Hurricanes had earlier made a poor start to their innings when McKay struck twice in the first four overs to dismiss Ricky Pointing (eight) and Travis Birt (three).

English batsmen Owais Shah could only add one before departing to leave Hobart reeling at 25-3, but Paine and Australia 20-over skipper George Bailey (28) steadied the ship before the former also fell to McKay.

Scott Styris bolstered the score with a quick 24 late in the innings but struggled for support as Lasith Malinga and James Faulkner complemented McKay with two scalps each. Shane Warne finished with 0-31 from his four overs.

Although Melbourne lost England international Luke Wright (one) early on, Quiney and Hodge put the home side firmly in control, hitting nine boundaries between them before departing.

Cameron White seemed to be guiding the Stars home before skying a Laughlin delivery to Birt and with Glen Maxwell (19) having fallen in the previous over, Melbourne were left stuttering rather than cruising over the line.

Don't miss any live and exclusive cricket coverage this festive season. Click hereto visit Sky Sports' Festive Calendar

Sky Bet Odds: