Darwin, August 24, 2025: Baxter Holt’s scintillating unbeaten century and a composed bowling effort propelled the Perth Scorchers Academy to a 15-run win over Adelaide Strikers Academy, sealing the Top End T20 Series title at Marrara Cricket Ground No. 2 on Sunday.
Set a daunting 206 to win, the Strikers finished at 190-6 despite a fighting 83* from Mackenzie Harvey. Holt, who smashed 114 not out off 63 balls with 12 fours and four sixes, was the star of the final as the Scorchers posted 205-2 after being put into bat. Skipper Teague Wyllie chipped in with 56 off 44 to provide strong support.
In reply, Adelaide overcame the early loss of Jake Winter (1) as Harvey and Harry Manenti launched a fierce counterattack. The pair raced the score to 104 inside 10 overs, with Manenti blasting a 31-ball 60 (six fours, four sixes).
The turning point arrived in the 18th over when the Scorchers struck twice in quick succession, Harry Nielsen (28 off 27) and Ryan King fell within three balls, leaving the Strikers at 172-4. With only 18 runs coming in the final two overs, Adelaide’s chase lost steam.
For the Scorchers, Matthew Spoors and Keaton Critchell picked up two wickets each to back up Holt’s batting heroics. Among Strikers’ bowlers, Jerrssis Wadia and Hanno Jacobs were the only wicket-takers.
The victory capped off a strong campaign for the Scorchers Academy, who combined batting firepower with disciplined bowling to clinch the 2025 Top End T20 crown.
