Haris Rauf's spell in vain as Melbourne Stars knocked out of BBL 15

HOBART: Pacer Haris Rauf's exceptional spell went in vain as Hobart Hurricanes edged past Melbourne Stars by three runs in a rain-hit knockout match of the Big Bash League (BBL) 15 at the Bellerive Oval on Wednesday.

Batting first in a rain-affected contest, which was later reduced to 10 overs per side, the Hurricanes posted 114-5. 

The innings was anchored by a fiery knock from Beau Webster, who scored 47 off 26 deliveries, smashing three fours and three sixes.

Nikhil Chaudhary played a crucial cameo, scoring 24 off 11 balls with the help of three sixes, while skipper Ben McDermott chipped in with 12 off seven balls, including two boundaries.

For the Stars, Haris Rauf was the pick of the bowlers, returning figures of 2/27 in his two overs. Glenn Maxwell, Tom Curran and Marcus Stoinis claimed one wicket each.

Rain intervened again during the interval, revising Melbourne Stars' target to 85 runs in seven overs.

In reply, the Stars were restricted to 81-4. Joe Clarke top-scored with a 17-ball 31, hitting four boundaries and a six. Hilton Cartwright added a quick 15 off four balls, including two fours and a six, while Sam Harper contributed 10 runs.

Riley Meredith led the Hurricanes' bowling attack with figures of 2/19 in two overs, while Mitchell Owen picked up one wicket.

It is pertinent to mention that Hobart Hurricanes will now face the loser of Qualifier 1 between Sydney Sixers and their opponents in the Challenger on Friday. 

The winner of that match will meet Perth Scorchers in the final on Sunday.