Glenn Maxwell delivered an incredible performance at the MCG, putting aside personal setbacks to lead the Melbourne Stars to a thrilling 16-run victory over the top-of-the-table Sydney Sixers. This upset win keeps the Stars’ faint hopes of making the BBL finals alive.

On the same day his Test cricket dreams likely came to an end, Maxwell smashed an unbeaten 58 runs, grabbed two key catches in the field, and became the fifth player in BBL history to surpass 3,000 career runs. His fiery 32-ball knock, combined with solid teamwork, turned the tide for the Stars.

Despite a shaky start, with Marcus Stoinis dismissed for just four runs, the Stars rallied. Stoinis made up for it with the ball, taking 2-30 as the Sixers fell short in their chase of 156, finishing at 9-140. English import Ben Duckett had a nervous moment when he dropped James Vince on 36—especially since Vince had hit a match-winning century against the Stars just two weeks earlier. However, Maxwell made no such mistake, catching Vince for 53 and then dismissing Sixers captain Moises Henriques just two balls later. Maxwell’s catches sparked passionate celebrations among the Stars players.

Stoinis, reflecting on the game, said both he and Maxwell deeply care about the club and are determined to bring it back to its glory days. He also praised Maxwell’s professionalism, acknowledging the disappointment of being left out of Australia’s Test squad but applauding his ability to rise above it and inspire his teammates.

The game wasn’t without controversy. A low catch by Usama Mir to dismiss Jack Edwards required multiple replays before being confirmed by the TV umpire. Mir also bowled impressively, finishing with figures of 2-19.

Maxwell and Beau Webster (48) played a crucial role in rescuing the Stars from a precarious position at 4-60 midway through their innings. Their 88-run partnership laid the foundation for a defendable total.

There was even an unexpected pause in play when a seagull was struck by a powerful shot from Vince, momentarily stopping the match.

For the Stars, who started their season with five consecutive losses, every game now is a must-win. They still have a chance to make the finals if they can beat both the Melbourne Renegades and Hobart Hurricanes in their last two matches—and if other results fall in their favor.

Meanwhile, the Sixers missed an opportunity to solidify their top spot on the ladder. They’ll face a tough challenge against the Perth Scorchers at the SCG this Saturday.