All-Melbourne Big Bash final today

Melbourne: Melbourne Renegades will host crosscity rivals the Stars in today’s BBL decider after claiming a thrilling three-wicket semifinal victory over Sydney Sixers on Friday.

Set 181 to win at Marvel Stadium, the Renegades required 46 off the final four overs but held their nerve to book a first BBL final appearance. All-rounder Dan Christian was the hero for the Renegades, blasting an unbeaten 31 off 14 balls after skipper Aaron Finch (44) set the foundations. Christian survived a scare in the penultimate over when Jack Edwards spilled a tough chance at long on with the Renegades already six wickets down. The Renegades had looked in deep trouble at 133-6 when Finch was clean-bowled while attempting to switch-hit Steve O’Keefe (2-22).

“I was pretty confident,” Christian said.

“The boys had done a really good job leading up to then ... it was nice to get over the line.” O’Keefe also dismissed test opener Marcus Harris in the first over, while Sam Harper fell to Ben Dwarshuis after an aggressive 36 off 17 balls. Harper was left thoroughly unimpressed after an exuberant Dwarshuis collided with the batsman while celebrating the wicket.

Cameron White, back in the XI after two games on the sidelines with a hamstring injury, joined skipper Aaron Finch at the crease and looked in good touch early.

But the veteran chopped onto his stumps off an Abbott delivery on 29, while Mackenzie Harvey and Tom Cooper soon followed.

Openers Josh Philippe (52 off 31 balls) and Daniel Hughes (52 off 32) earlier led the way as the Sixers posted 180-3 - the highest score at Marvel Stadium for the season.

-AAP