Tim Paine was embroiled in controversy earlier this week for a comment he made about the Melbourne Stars’ ability to accommodate so many class players and stay under the salary cap, causing Stars President Eddie McGuire to get angry – very angry.
Stars director of coaching Ian Chappell did the numbers, they were all good, the Stars were no cheats.
Ed had enough of people saying his boys were cheats, but did admit to Shane Warne some got bonuses while playing last year.
Ed wanted Paine to have a miserable night, drop all his catches make a mockery of being a wicketkeeper.
Ed wanted blood. He wanted Paine to pay the price. So Paine said sorry.
Then came the big game, where the stars were going to flog the boys in purple.
But hang on – Cameron White goes early, Luke Wright’s gone and suddenly things have gone from bad to worse for the best team in the land.
No! shouted an angry Matt Wade as he was caught by Shoaib Malik who has been dropping sitters all tournament.
Things looked good for the boys in purple, as the underdogs soon became the favourites.
Cameron Boyce showed why he could well be on a plane to Bangaldesh with impressive flight and length that had these Stars in a spin.
He was taken off, which was seeming costly as a blitz from Brad Hodge and David Hussey ensued, getting the Stars to a respectable target of 141.
The Hurricanes need someone to steer this innings, the man of the hour came and it was a real Paine for the boys in green.
Ben Dunk went about his business as usual, scoring a quick 30 to combine well with Paine, who was batting with furious intent.
The Stars’ attack lacked potency, with no Jackson Bird or James Faulkner to rely on, and Lasith Malinga was not himself.
Paine’s 50 got the man of the moment clapping – he knew the cameras were right on him, they had been all night.
Paine fell soon after, but the work had been done and George Bailey finished the whole thing off with the charismatic smile.
Eddie was seen fuming in the tunnel and Stars players shook hands and signed the fans’ merchandise.
Paine went about his business and was classy in victory – there won’t be any mention of Eddie fuelling him up it for the night but he did, you could tell.
As a Renegades fan I salute you, Tim Paine.
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