Archer cameo fails to save Hurricanes

 Jofra Archer … produced a solid all-round performance.
Jofra Archer … produced a solid all-round performance.

LAUNCESTON, Tasmania,  CMC – Barbadian Jofra Archer’s late cameo failed to save Hobart Hurricanes from a heavy defeat, as they went down by 57 runs to Sydney Thunder in the Australia Big Bash here yesterday.

Chasing an uncomplicated 167 for victory at Aurora Stadium, the hosts tumbled to 109 all out with three balls remaining, to record their second straight loss and remain winless in the competition.

Opener Alex Doolan top-scored with 34 from 32 balls while the 22-year-old Archer, batting at number nine, lashed a 16-ball unbeaten 25.

He belted a four and a six as he anchored the best stand of the innings – 27 for the eighth wicket – with Clive Rose who made 13.

Leg-spinner Fawad Ahmed (2-14) and 19-year-old off-spinner Arjune Nair (2-17) led five bowlers with two wickets each.

England’s Jos Buttler had earlier top-scored with 67 off 41 deliveries to propel Thunder to 166 for five off their 20 overs.

He punched five fours and a six, adding 95 for the second wicket with Shane Watson who got 41 from 35 balls.

Archer was excellent with the ball, taking one for 22 from four economical overs of seam.