BBL 2023-24: Josh Brown lights up Carrara Oval with an innings for the stargazers

In an astonishing display of power hitting, Josh Brown, the Brisbane Heat opener, displayed a breathtaking performance against the Adelaide Strikers in the Challenger. In what can only be described as one of the greatest knocks in BBL history, Brown crafted his destiny, smashing a record 12 sixes with a bat he handcrafted himself.

A bat-maker by trade, the 30-year-old right-hander dismantled the in-form Strikers' attack, propelling the Heat to a commanding position with a total of 7-214 at the halfway mark. Brown's maiden century came in just 41 balls, marking the second-fastest in BBL history, equalling Glenn Maxwell and trailing only behind Craig Simmons.

Remarkably, Brown's 12 sixes set a new record for a single innings in the Big Bash, surpassing the likes of Chris Lynn, Chris Gayle, and Simmons. His innings reached a total of 140 runs from 57 balls, the third-highest individual BBL score. However, his attempt at a 13th six was caught by Strikers' wicketkeeper Harry Nielsen.

"They just kept missing so I just kept hitting it. t just makes me feel so happy to be able to do that in front of my family, I know it makes them proud and it makes me feel proud as well," Brown told Fox Cricket during the innings break, reflecting on his stellar performance.

Brown's innings not only secured the highest score in a BBL final but also stands as the fastest century for the Heat. The crowd witnessed an extraordinary display of hitting, prompting Aussie great Ricky Ponting to comment during the commentary for Channel Seven.

"We've seen something very special there from Josh Brown, magnificent innings," said Ponting.

 It hasn't sunk in yet. I'm still pinching myself: Brown

Coming to the match, Brisbane Heat secured a resounding victory, triumphing by 54 runs as the Adelaide Strikers were bundled out for 160 in their pursuit of 215. Josh Brown rightfully earned the title of Man of the Match for his stellar performance.

Reflecting on his achievement, Brown commented,

"Hopefully, I will be fine. The hip is a little sore. It hasn't sunk in yet. I'm still pinching myself. The first pull shot, and I knew I was feeling good. I just aimed to maintain my balance. The power was always there, but I've worked on my defense. When it's my day, I will hit it for a sixer. It'll be interesting in the finale at the SCG," after the match.