Summary
Pretty happy I stuck around for that in the end - a record runscoring match in the BBL, as after Matthew Wade posted the second biggest individual Big Bash score of all time, the Strikers came within a whisker of running down Hobart’s massive total. 424 runs off 240 deliveries. Who’d be a bowler in this modern age.
They book their finals spot, to end a dramatic day of Sportwatch. The Thunders did it close against the Scorchers, and their fate now hangs on Heat v Renegades - the final regulation season match of BBL09 tomorrow.
In the A-League a seven-goal thriller, as Besart Berisha’s brace in his 200th A-League appearance was for naught, as Adelaide won 4-3 late on against Western United. Goals in the W-League too, as Victory improved their spot in the top four with a 3-0 win over Canberra United.
Plenty from the Australian Open, headlined by Ash Barty’s nervy fourth round win against Alison Riske, and Novak Djokovic’s comfortable three-setter against Argentina’s Diego Schwartzman. Thanks for your company, adios!
Big Bash: Hurricanes win by 10 runs
That’s terrific running from the Strikers - they take on the arm off a dicey French cut and push for three; but the replay suggests the man called Short is just short! Valiant running.
Siddle strides in: 19 off 4 is the equation. He pushes one. Before Neser opens the shoulders and thumps Ellis over the boundary for six! He tries the repeat dose - a very similar delivery from Ellis - and he catches the pad, the umpire says: yep, lbw! Agar faces the last, just the one off it.
And that’s all she wrote! An incredible game of Big Bash. I gave the Strikers next to no chance, but didn’t they give it an absolute crack.
The Hurricanes are in the finals - the Scorchers tumble out of the five. And now the Thunder sweat on the Heat’s final game tomorrow night.
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Big Bash - 6/196 (19), Neser 3*, Short 5*
What an over from Faulkner. There’s a near run out - a series of slower balls - but more importantly, no boundaries, no sixers - and he goes for just five.
22 off the final over is the equation. Tough. But not impossible.
Big Bash - Wicket! Strikers 6/191 (18.2), Carey 39 out
It’s Faulkner v Carey. He beats him first delivery with a crucial dot - wide and swerving outside off. Next ball Carey goes after it - but it’s high, and it’s catchable: and Wright snaffles it! Terrific catch; terrific cricket.
And finally, have they broken the back of this Strikers’ innings?
Big Bash - Strikers 5/191 (18), Carey 39*, Short 3*
And we’ve now seen the most runs EVER in a Big Bash match! Incredible viewing here in Adelaide. It’s a great over from Ellis, but they run the kamikaze two on the final to get Carey back on strike - and a poor throw allows it!
He can still get them home, Alex Carey. We are staring at huge 12 huge deliveries is the scope of this game, this season, and possibly George Bailey’s career.
Big Bash - Wicket! Strikers 5/185 (17.2), Khan 8 out
First ball, and he’s lofted that for six! Khan is in a mood. He shifts in the crease as Ellis steams in, but he’s got him next ball! A great response from the bowler. It catches him low around the toe, and the umpire says: yes, lbw! Pressure bowling from Ellis - what a terrific yorker.
Big Bash - Strikers 4/179 (17), Carey 36*, Khan 2*
Ooph, that was close to the perfect over from Rose. W 1 1 1 0 - and then final ball? Back over his head for six! Critical from Carey - they’re still eying second spot and the double-chance in the finals knockouts, the Strikers.
39 off 18 to get. Absolutely doable.
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Big Bash - Wicket! Strikers 4/170 (16.1), Wells 15 out
A great seven-ball cameo, but they’re delighted to see the back of him, the ‘Canes - he’s gone first ball next over! It’s Rose with the breakthrough - a slower spinning delivery and he flicks the stumps.
In comes Rashid Khan. What a player to have. The complete T20 party trickster. Will he ramp? Reverse ramp? Paddle it with the handle? WHO KNOWS.
Big Bash - Strikers 3/170 (16), Carey 29*, Wells 15*
Back to back sixes from Jono Wells! He’s gone after the spin of D’arcy Short. Credit the bowler who fights back a little, just three more off the over. But they’re ahead of the Hurricanes’ innings at this stage! Wade did put in a big finish in one of the final overs from memory, but still.
Big Bash - Strikers 3/155 (15), Carey 28*, Wells 1*
It started with a wicket, it finished with three boundaries! 13 off the over - despite the wickets, they just continue to hang in there, the Strikers. Carey is seeing it nicely and Wells has strode to the crease a player in form.
We’re at the three-quarter mark - and is it possible, is it even conceivable that the Strikers might run this mammoth total down?
Big Bash - Wicket! Strikers 3/142 (14.1), Head 47 out
Can you believe it - first ball from Boland; and it’s one of the most unfortunate wickets you’ll see. He’s tried the sweep, the skipper, only got a bottom edge and dragged it back on the stumps - but it’s only JUST flicked the legside bail! On such margins etc.
Big Bash - Strikers 2/142 (14), Carey 16*, Head 47*
They need a wicket, the Hurricanes - these two are really starting to find their groove. He’s hit about 30 off 12 or so, Head, so he’s definitely accelerated. Carey’s seeing it nicely too, as they dispatch Short to the ropes with abandon.
Big Bash - Strikers 2/124 (12), Carey 13*, Head 32*
Here it comes. Now the skipper’s finally got hold of Qais Ahmad and Head has started to pick up the mantle from Salt. And then Carey puts the spinner in the stands! This is some batting pitch, and both sides are seeing in cleanly tonight. 12 off that over as well.
That’s what they need from here - run rates’ just a tick under 2 a ball; which normally you’d say is impossible, but...
Big Bash - Wicket! Strikers 2/99 (9.4), Salt 66 out
Big wicket! With 66 off 33 Salt looked the man to get the Strikers home - but with Head scratchy and now some tails up, can the Hurricanes bowlers knock over Alex Carey? He takes on the boundary riders once again, but this time Short snaffles one on the rope.
Again, you just can’t call a Big Bash game early (see - Sportwatch two weeks ago, re Heat’s 10 wicket collapse), but these are decisive overs for the ‘Canes season right here.
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Big Bash - Strikers 1/79 (8), Salt 57*, Head 10*
Fascinating patch of the contest - a wicket, a few slow overs and the screws could start to turn on the Strikers. But a big 20+ over or two? There’s a big crowd in in Adelaide, and they’re jumping on every boundary to cheer their boys on.
Nicely poised. And you wouldn’t think that chasing 200+.
Big Bash - Strikers 1/70 (7), Salt 50*, Head 8*
First look at Qais, the spinner, and he pins Travis Head at the crease a little. He can’t allow too many dots, or the scoreboard pressure will rise astronomically on the Strikers. Salt grabs his half-century. George Bailey will be grinding his teeth after dropping him on 4.
Great over from Qais Ahmad - just four from it.
Big Bash - Strikers 1/57 (5), Salt 41*, Head 5*
Righto, I gave them five overs, but when Salt’s in this mood I might hang around a little longer. He whacks Boland for six, and next ball finds the boundary. 14 off the over.
We know that it’s an imposing total, but so far - they’re on track, the Strikers.
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Big Bash - Strikers 1/36 (3), Salt 24*, Head 1*
Poor old James Faulkner. A catch dropped in the first over, now he’s copping four byes off an excellent slower ball that evades both batsmen and ‘keeper. A good over in the end - 15 off it.
They do pick up Weatherald at the other end, so there’s an early wicket, but it does look like Salt will be the danger man for the Hurricanes. Can he capitalise on that first-over let off?
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Ash Barty defeats Alison Riske 6-3, 1-6, 6-4!
Nerves, what nerves? Barty starts the ninth game of the third set with real intention, and the crowd squeals with excitement as she peels off two terrific winners to swing momentum.
Missed any of this one? Follow Daniel Harris’ Australian Open liveblog - and don’t forget - Federer to come:
Big Bash - Strikers 0/14 (1), Salt 13*, Weatherald 1*
And we’re away! Salt goes after the very first delivery, and he finds the rope. No guessing how they’re going to go about this, then the Strikers.
And then - would you believe it: of all people - second ball it’s George Bailey who drops a sitter! It dollied to him at midwicket - and the hands were cold. Salt takes the let off - he sends Faulkner to the rope twice more, and they’re 1/20 of the way there, the Strikers.
While we wait for that - don’t forget the Barty Party is of course in action on centre court in Melbourne.
It’s been a see-sawer for the World No 1 - an imposing first set, followed by a real wobble in the second. She’s fought back in the decider though - don’t miss a single shot of that one, here:
End of Innings: Hurricanes 1/217 (20), Wade 130*
It’s a highest team total at the Adelaide Oval and a personal PB for Wade. 130* off 61. An absolutely brutal display of T20 batting. The Strikers have been absolutely walloped. Can they regroup in the sheds, try and make a decent start and then see if they can run this down?
My Sunday night Cinderella carriage has just pulled up, but maybe out of the goodness of my heart I’ll stick round a little longer to find out. You get five overs, Strikers. Or you’ve lost me.
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Big Bash - Hurricanes 1/207 (19), Wade 122*, McDermott 2*
And they get Short! You’d have to say too little, too late, but at least some positive morale for the Strikers. He holes out in the deep and that was a tricky catch for Salt. It flew right into the night’s sky and hung there forever, but he held it well.
Just five off the over from Neser, that’s better. What can they do to finish it, the Hurricanes?
Big Bash - Hurricanes 0/202 (18), Wade 119*, Short 72*
Short has really come to the party as well. Perhaps out of embarrassment at just how quickly Wade has gone - and he’s just put Siddle over the rope, twice. Even metronomic Pete can’t avoid the onslaught.
Somebody check the record books. Highest total? Most sixes? Most bowlers going for over 8+? Highest all-time partnership?
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Big Bash - Hurricanes 0/185 (17), Wade 117*, Short 57*
Wade’s just gone 6, 6, 4 off Agar - and he’s rattled the entire Strikers’ XI here. Now it’s a big wide from Agar. The injury wouldn’t have helped him, but this mental battering is taking effect. And then Short hits him for six too. 25 off the over.
Big Bash - Hurricanes 0/160 (16), Wade century!
It’s taken him just 48 balls, but the ‘Canes skipper - just when they needed him, has stood tall! Finally, even Peter Siddle goes for some stick. And at the other end, Short brings up his 50. Incredibly also off 48 balls - which just shows you how quickly Wade is going.
This could be a 200-er from the Hurricanes. And you’d have to say, surely that books them a finals spot? Surely.
Big Bash - Hurricanes 0/138 (14), Wade 90*, Short 39*
Ouch. We’ve an injury break after a nasty knock on the bone for Wes Agar. Was that shin? Knee? He’s moving very gingerly, although at least he’s back on his feet.
For two batsmen absolutely flying is their a danger of this break arresting momentum? They’re both very experienced so perhaps not - but it’s a welcome chance to catch breath for the Strikers.
Agar somehow finishes the over - great courage - and would you believe, it’s the best of the innings for the Strikers. Just two off it.
A-League: Western United 3-4 Adelaide United
And there’s the final whistle - what an absolute rollercoaster. It’s a first senior football league game at Whitten Oval after an incredible 25-year wait between drinks - fans will be hoping they play here every weekend!
More one for the neutrals, mind - no coach or fan wants to see their players ship three or four a game. A big crash back to earth for Western United who looked imperious last weekend putting the Mariners to the sword 3-0. But it seems that was the exception rather than the rule, with the run now three losses from four. Big points for Adelaide, who jump above Western United into the top six. Can they push on from here?
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Big BAsh - Hurricanes 0/125 (12), Wade 85*, Short 32*
It could be some batting pitch this, but Wade is having an absolute field day. Even Rashid Khan has come in for some real stick here - 12 off the over. Shows the quality of Peter Siddle - the bowling card reads: 6 bowlers going for 8.5+ an over (Stanlake’s 22 the outlier, but plenty of 10+) and Siddle? 4.5.
This is something special from Wade though - nine boundaries and FOUR sixes so far. The last of which was caught deep in the crowd by a lad on his buck’s weekend. Larks.
A-League - Goal! Western United 3-4 Adelaide (Konstandopoulos)
79 min: Mias dias. (With apologies to Spanish speakers). What is the lord’s sweet kingdom is going on here. We’ve a SEVENTH goal of the game. And this after a 0-0 and 1-0 via a dodgy own-goal yesterday.
The youngster off the bench has joined the party, and what a hit from the midfielder! It’s a half-clearance from the Western United defence, but it only finds Konstandopoulos - who curls a terrific effort past the outstretched Kurto! They’re back in front, Adelaide - again!
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Big Bash - Hurricanes 0/91 (8), Wade 58*, Short 25*
It’s normally Short who throws the hands at them, but it’s Wade who’s come out of the blocks raring today. It’s big Billy Stanlake who comes in for attention as Wade one-hand clubs him off leg for four. Oh dear. And now he’s gone for six! And on the final ball of the over - an almost replica shot - he’s dropped in the deep! A tough chance, was perhaps falling short, ut still.
22 off the over. Ouch. And they’re absolutely flying, the ‘Canes.
A-League - 70 min: And in the context of this game, you want to say a lull - but I promise you, it continues to be end-to-end. Max Burgess seems determined to be an X-factor for Western United, while in the absence of Ersum Gulum (departed the club), Connor Chapman (departed the club), Brendan Hamill (injured) and Aaron Calver (injured) - it’s fair to say the home side’s backline is struggling to come to grips with the likes of McGree, Troisi and Mileusnic.
Big Bash - Hurricanes 0/38 (4), Wade 18*, Short 15*
Good over here from Siddle, who goes for just five. It was a lively first three overs - with both batsmen looking “in a mood”. Neser and Short going for 11 and 12 respective - five fours off the first three overs. Build a partnership here and it could look decent for the Hurricanes’ finals hopes.
Remember, we’ve got three teams booked into the final five ahead of this, the penultimate game of BBL09: Stars, Sixers and Strikers. And then there’s a four-into-two magic act - with both the Hurricanes and the Heat with their fate in their own hands. Win here and they leap above the Scorchers, with net run rate narrowly sneaking Hobart past the Thunder as well. And then even if the Heat win tomorrow, they sit secure in the top five.
A-League - Goal! Western United 3-3 Adelaide (Diamanti)
54 min: Bloody hell. This game isn’t letting up! Cometh the almost hour, and who else - the Western United skipper and mercurial talent, Alessandro Diamanti who finally gets in on the act! The youngster Louis D’Arrigo gets his pocket picked in midfield and they feed the skipper on the edge of the box. He only ever has one thing in mind - jinking back onto his superb left foot, and he rifles an unstoppable effort past Izzo! 3-3.
Are you not entertained, Footscray??
Now - let’s get to Adelaide where we’re finally underway in the late BBL clash between the Strikers and the Hurricanes.
It’s the visitors who have won the toss and elected to bat - Matthew Wade and D’Arcy Short are the men send out to try and secure this crucial win for the side from Hobart. Fairly decent pair, let’s see how they fare.
A-League - second half!
We’re back! Five goals in that first half - can we expect six at Whitten Oval in the second? Judging by the tambour of Mark Rudan’s brief half-time chat with broadcaster Fox Sports, you’d imagine if even one more goal is scored by Adelaide United he’ll be going nuclear. Gertjan Verbeek is no shrinking violet either - so let’s just say defences may find their resolves a little stiffened during that break in play.
And what’s happening in the Tour Down Under - I hear cycling fans scream? Fret no longer. Great to see Tasmania’s finest Richie Porte - back on the podium:
Some other big ticket items going on around the globe - there’s more Test cricket action just getting underway in South Africa, and it’s good news for the visiting England team who have an early breakthrough:
Right - it’s officially Barty Party O’Clock in Melbourne - as the World No 1 and as of yesterday Young Australian of the Year Ash Barty strides out for her fourth round clash.
I’m going to step away from the tennis and redirect you to the impeccable hands of Daniel Harris to take you through the evening’s matches:
Australian Open: Sandgren 7-6, 5-5 Fognini *
A comical game, as Sandgren hits three consecutive lets, to the fascination of the crowd, and even a smile from the chair umpire. He eventually holds to love, a needed settler for the American - and it sets us up nicely for another late-set tussle.
A-League: Western United 3-2 Adelaide - Half-time
So there’s the final whistle on a pulsating first stanza. You’d have to say, I don’t imagine either coach would be happy with what they’ve seen - which is remarkable to say, when you’ve either witnessed your team score two, or three goals.
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Australian Open: * Sandgren 7-6, 4-5 Fognini
This has been an incredible 15-20 minutes from the Italian! He looked out - physically and mentally - but with Sandgren cruising at 4-1, 30-15, he’s just picked himself up from the canvas.
Incredibly, that’s five games in a row for the 12th seed. Sandgren offered a wry smile when he dropped his serve for 4-2, not now.
It was a foot fault call and then a time violation that had Fognini loosing his rattle - but all that drama seems to have helped him lift his game.
And suddenly, it’s Sandgren serving to stay in the second set.
A-League: Goal! Western United 2-3 Adelaide (Berisha)
42 min: Oh my. What is going on here. It’s Burgess again the creator, who provides the forward momentum before sliding a fine ball in behind for Pain. It’s a fierce, whipped, first-time ball and who’s on the end of it? Mr 200 games! A double for Berisha as he somehow sneaks between two defenders to bundle home! What an incredible half of football.
Australian Open: Sandgren 7-6, 4-2 Fognini *
You have to say, Fognini is in all sorts here. He’s remonstrating with the chair umpire, he’s taking medical breaks. But with Sandgren leading 4-1, 30-15 he’s come back to get the break! Big cheers from his supporters. The American perhaps for one second just thought he was walking the second set. Not anymore. A few lazy shots, and then an incredible scramble by the Italian at 30-40 to clinch the break. What a point!
A-League - 30 min: So, you’d hardly say it’s settled down, but after that frenetic series of goals, there’s a marginally more gentle ebb and flow to this one now.
Still opportunities at both ends - Burgess tries to jink inside, before Diamanti tries an effort. It’s a statement of obvious at this stage but this is a very open game of football.
A-League: Goal! Western United 1-3 Adelaide (McGree)
18 min: Goodness gracious! You have to fault the ‘keeper here, although maybe there’s a very slight touch that puts off the usually impeccable Pole. It’s a cross in from Halloran and it’s driven hard and low straight through the arms of Kurto.
Defences optional - football’s back at Whitton Park, with verve!
A-League: Goal! Western United 1-2 Adelaide (Mileusnic)
15 min: Crikey. It’s a turnover in midfield by James Troisi (albeit with some hint of a possible foul?) and he feeds Blackwood who runs at the retreating defence. He squares it for a late-arriving Mileusnic who tucks into the roof of the net!
What a frenetic start to this game! Mark Rudan will be chewing wasps.
A-League: Goal! Western United 1-1 Adelaide (Berisha)
12 min: Well, twice bitten, thrice very angry. He uncoils like a cobra - and whack! Berisha finally sinks his teeth into this contest. A great run from Max Burgess to give Western United some forward momentum - he rolls it to the Kosovan who digs it out of his feet nicely and lashes home past Paul Izzo. Game on!
A-League: Goal! Western United 0-1 Adelaide (Mileusnic)
9 min: It was the home side who started the brighter with Berisha spurning two chances in quick succession, but it’s the visitors who take the lead! Fine work from George Blackwood who jinks along the goalline before the ball falls to Nikola Mileusnic who lashes home from near the edge of the box!
Australia Open: Tennys Sandgren takes the first set 7-6 (7-5)
With a name like this he was almost predestined to the sport, but the American Sandgren has hung on in a see-sawing first set tiebreaker.
Some uncharacteristic errors from Fabio Fognini saw the American skip to a 4-0 lead, but a string of fine errors tightened things back up at 4-3. The American grabbing all-import mini-break on another Fognini error. Big set that - almost an hour played.
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Now - we’ve got A-League action just getting underway from Melbourne’s west where it’s Western United hosting Adelaide United - an intriguing fixture, this one. More on that anon.
At the Australian Open it’s Tennys Sandgren and Fabio Fognini presently locking horns. Many would have favoured the Italian, he is the 12th seed after all, but he’s finding it tough at the moment, deep in the first.
And we’ll have more Big Bash action shortly - from Adelaide where the Strikers play host to the Hurricanes in a match that could have all sorts of permutations for the finals spots.
W-League: Melbourne Victory 3-0 Canberra United
They love their Tash Dowie down there in Melbourne, and Victoy’s skipper has been at the heart of things once more. Melina Ayres got things going for the home side with a brace late in the first half, before a goal for the big English striker.
They were disciplined at the back and ruthless up front - and you could feel the air draining out of this (predominantly) young Canberra United. Their finals chances are well gone, but for Victory - a spot in the finals looks likely theirs.
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Evening all! Thanks JP, another sterling turn at the wheel. I said this yesterday, but gee - there’s some sport flying round this weekend.
A quick round the grounds to come, but let’s start at Lakeside Stadium in Melbourne, with the W-League.
To see you through the remainder of the night and fill you in on all the BBL permutations as they happen, it’s over to Richard Parkin.
BBL: Hobart play Adelaide tonight and Brisbane take on the Renegades tomorrow. The Hurricanes and Heat can both disrupt the order of the top five so neither the Thunder nor the Scorchers can rest easy.
BBL: Sydney Thunder beat Perth Scorchers by seven wickets
What a finish! With just two balls remaining! Chris Morris settles the Thunder’s nerves with a six then a four after a simple cruise turned into a jittery nightmare.
It’s a massive result in the context of the season because it vaults the Thunder from seventh up to fourth and in pole position for a spot in the finals with just two matches remaining. The Scorchers drop to fifth and face a nail-biting wait to find out if they will feature again this season.
That could be a season-defining six right there!!! #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/DNzZ0Zggqo
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 26, 2020
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BBL: Make that three from three - Chris Morris has drilled a six into the sight-screen to the delight of the Sydney Thunder crowd.
BBL: Three from the first two balls of Matt Kelly’s over. Nine from four required.
W-League: 84 mins: Melbourne Victory 3-0 Canberra United - Melbourne Victory in cruise control.
⚽️ GOAL, @victorywleague 3-0 @CanberraUnited (77 mins)
— Westfield W-League (@WLeague) January 26, 2020
And that might seal it. @tatsdowie heads home from a Jackson cross. Long way back for Canberra now.#MVCvCBR #WLeague pic.twitter.com/0FMlS9P5pf
BBL: An incredible over from Jhye Richardson has transformed this match. Sydney Thunder now require 12 runs from the final over to beat Perth Scorchers.
BOOM!
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 26, 2020
Game on the line, Jhye Richardson would be right up there as who you'd want with ball in hand #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/f0pZP2yEGj
Australian Open: Kevin Mitchell was courtside to witness the end of Coco Gauff’s remarkable Australian Open.
W-League: HT: Melbourne Victory 2-0 Canberra United - Melbourne Victory are in a rich vein of form in the W-League and they look set to continue their march up the ladder against Canberra United, who are beginning to lose touch with the pack in the race for the finals.
2️⃣ for Ayres, 2️⃣ for @victorywleague
— Westfield W-League (@WLeague) January 26, 2020
🎥: @FOXFOOTBALL #MVCvCBR #WLeague pic.twitter.com/zqy2ZlhUlE
Big Bash League: Sydney Thunder are on their way to victory against Perth Scorchers in a rain-affected clash in NSW. The visitors made 99 before their innings was cut short by rain in the 15th over.
🌧️🌧️Here come the covers 🌧️🌧️
— Perth Scorchers (@ScorchersBBL) January 26, 2020
Bangers (35*) and Tim (13*) are standing up under pressure, guiding us to 4-99 off 15.#MADETOUGH #BBL09
The Thunder are cruising in their DLS-influenced chase.
4️⃣ overs down and we're 0/35 with Hales (23*) and Khawaja (12*) in the middle 🤜🤛
— Sydney Thunder (@ThunderBBL) January 26, 2020
61 from 48 required to win... #ThunderNation pic.twitter.com/hMhqKUGIV2
I spoke too soon. Back to the Australian Open for confirmation of another remarkable victory for Ons Jabeur.
The Tunisian has now defeated 12th seed Johanna Konta, recent top-tenner Caroline Garcia, 2018 champion Caroline Wozniacki, and now the conqueror of Serena Williams, Wang Qiang.
Soak it in 🇹🇳@Ons_Jabeur advances to her first career Grand Slam quarterfinal 7-6(4) 6-1 over Wang to set a date with Sofia Kenin.#AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/eOAs0hrm2n
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 26, 2020
Time to broaden our horizons for the next hour or so and catch-up with what’s been going on outside Melbourne Park today.
Not one for the highlights reel, but Novak Djokovic had too much for Diego Schwartzman. Both men averaged ten unforced errors per set and the Argentinian 14th seed landed only 56% of first serves.
Djokovic beats Schwartzman (6-3 6-4 6-4)
Third set: Djokovic* 6-3 6-4 6-4 Schwartzman (*denotes server): Schwartzman shows incredible hustle to stay in the opening point - but he still loses it. Djokovic then moves up 30-0 with some rasping forehands and 40-0 with some driving backhands. The seven-time champion secures the win when his opponent returns wide. A 46th grand slam quarter-final awaits the second seed.
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Third set: Djokovic 6-3 6-4 5-4 Schwartzman* (*denotes server): Djokovic can scent victory at 15-30 but the latest in a long line of awkward error-strewn games ends with a hold. This was a far from classic game in a far from classic match. Djokovic will serve for the spoils.
Cocomania is over for another slam.
#14 Sofia Kenin reaches her first Slam quarterfinal, ending 15-year-old Coco Gauff's great #AusOpen run 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-0.
— Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) January 26, 2020
Kenin, herself only 21, awaits the winner of Jabeur-Wang.
That was impressive from Sofia Kenin. Despite completely cutting out errors from her game in the final two sets, I like that she never stops taking her backhand early.
— Tumaini Carayol (@tumcarayol) January 26, 2020
Gauff was exceptional in the first set but sustaining that is just tough. Another great run and better lesson.
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Third set: Djokovic* 6-3 6-4 5-3 Schwartzman (*denotes server): Some rare creativity from Schwartzman this game, unfurling a tweener then a Djokovic-esque drop shot to stay in the mix at 15-15. The champ then muscles his way to a hold to 30.
Ons Jabeur, climbs from 1-4 down to wrap up a 53-minute first set 7-6(4) over No.27 seed Wang Qiang.
— Reem Abulleil (@ReemAbulleil) January 26, 2020
It's the first time Ons has taken a set off of Q in 3 meetings. #ausopen
Third set: Djokovic 6-3 6-4 4-3 Schwartzman* (*denotes server): Two double faults bookend consecutive unforced errors to leave the game balanced at 30-30. Djokovic then steams into a weak second serve to bully his way to break point but he throws that opportunity away by missing his backhand by some margin.
Schwartzman returns the favour at deuce to concede his second break point of the game but he saves it with a serve his opponent cannot return. Djokovic then commands the second deuce to engineer a third break point but again an uncharacteristic error keeps the game alive.
Schwartzman finally gets his nose in front on deuce three, and a couple of quick points behind forceful serves settle his nerves.
Third set: Djokovic* 6-3 6-4 4-2 Schwartzman (*denotes server): Djokovic slips to 0-30 with consecutive unforced errors but then turns on the afterburners to serve his way level. 30-30 becomes 40-30 after a 21-shot rally that ends with Djokovic finally nailing the change-up drop shot. But he still allows deuce to arrive when he misses the target with a forehand down the line.
Both men then scrap hard in scenes reminiscent of the opening set but both concede errors, Schwartzman under pressure, Djokovic not, to invite a second deuce. Here Djokovic misses with a low-percentage backhand down the line to gift a break point, but he saves it with the latest in a long line of crunching forehands too hot for even the most redoubtable of defenders.
Deuce three is more routine and Djokovic consolidates the break.
Third set: Djokovic 6-3 6-4 3-2 Schwartzman* (*denotes server): The first pressure on either server this set arrives when Schwartzman tries to shorten a rally too soon and slaps his forehand wide. That pressure tells with just his third double fault of the match then intensifies in a nervous point that results in a break of serve to love. Djokovic can begin steeling himself for the ice bath.
Third set: Djokovic* 6-3 6-4 2-2 Schwartzman (*denotes server): Djokovic holds to love, sealing the game with a second serve ace after earlier winning a point in fortunate circumstances when he was wrong-footed by a net cord but still managed to spin 180 degrees and jab a backhand winner.
Third set: Djokovic 6-3 6-4 1-2 Schwartzman* (*denotes server): Better from Schwartzman, demonstrating some intensity for the first time since early in the opening set and crafting some neat points to hold to 15. The highlight is a seven-shot rally (the longest in about an hour) that ends with a miraculous stopping half-volley backhand at the net that does just enough for the Argentinian.
A superb second set from @SofiaKenin.
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 26, 2020
The 14th seed takes it 6-3 to force a decider. Her career three set win-loss record is 26-20. Gauff's is 7-1.
Who ya got? #AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/unpGCBcBJW
Third set: Djokovic* 6-3 6-4 1-1 Schwartzman (*denotes server): Schwartzman edges to 15-30, profiting from another well executed lob - and poor approach play from his opponent. Undeterred, Djokovic serves his way powerfully to the hold.
Djokovic does not look completely at ease out there, muttering to himself often and now glaring at someone in the crowd. He has performed well below his best, despite the scoreline.
Third set: Djokovic 6-3 6-4 0-1 Schwartzman* (*denotes server): Despite the defensive skills of both men, rallies have been in short supply in the past few games. The pattern continues with a below-par Djokovic gifting Schwartzman a simple hold to open the third set.
Second set: Djokovic* 6-3 6-4 Schwartzman (*denotes server): Djokovic holds to love and the second set is his. Not a vintage game, set, or match so far, but the champion is within touching distance of a quarter-final date with Milos Raonic.
The challenge system tends to be pretty low-key but it’s really added to the stop-start nature of this match, one that has really struggled for rhythm.
Second set: Djokovic 6-3 5-4 Schwartzman* (*denotes server): Serving to stay in the set Schwartzman holds to 30 but the game’s highlight is a return winner from a full stretch Djokovic who managed to land the forehand n the darkest corner of the court.
Second set: Djokovic* 6-3 5-3 Schwartzman (*denotes server): Quite a few games today have lacked impetus. The crowd doesn’t seem fully engaged yet and there have been lots of passages featuring short rallies and soft errors. This is another example, but Djokovic holds with a 194kph ace that catches the line.
Second set: Djokovic 6-3 4-3 Schwartzman* (*denotes server): Schwartzman dashes out to 40-0 courtesy of some wasteful tennis from Djokovic, but the champ recovers focus to 40-30 before a 23-shot rally has the crowd on its feet. It could go either way and just as Djokovic moves in for the kill at the net Schwartzman rips a fizzing forehand down the line that just stays in court to secure the hold.
Second set: Djokovic* 6-3 4-2 Schwartzman (*denotes server): Djokovic holds to love. Just what the Djoctor ordered.
After missing on four set points and catching two service tosses in a row (and apologizing) Coco Gauff nails a first serve and wins the rally to take the opening set against Sofia Kenin 7-6 (7-5)
— Christopher Clarey (@christophclarey) January 26, 2020
What were you doing when you were 15 years old?
Second set: Djokovic 6-3 3-2 Schwartzman* (*denotes server): There’s a definite momentum swing occurring. Djokovic looks to have the opening point sewn up but he declines to attack a Schwartzman lob only to turn and see it bounce delicately in court. There’s still life in the game at 40-30 but the Argentinian pulls out a stunner to force Djokovic onto the defensive at the net, then hammers a couple of shots in the Serbian’s direction, forcing some reflex self-preservation, before putting away the winner.
🇦🇺 Aussie Aussie Aussie 🇦🇺@MaxPurcell98 and @LukeSaville18 def. Andres Molteni and Hugo Nys 6-3 7-5 to send another Australian wildcard pairing through to the #AO2020 quarterfinals of the Men's Doubles.#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/mb9N1ldlZH
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 26, 2020
Second set: Djokovic* 6-3 3-1 Schwartzman (*denotes server): After all the points flowing Djokovic’s way it’s a surprise to see the scoreline read 0-30. Obviously what happens next is an inside-out forehand winner down the line winner, followed up by a booming serve. But Schwartzman returns the serve, then somehow guesses right when Djokovic has two golden opportunities to hammer home a winner, eventually chasing down a drop shot to clip a winner. Unexpectedly the 14th seed has two break points, his first of the match. Djokovic saves the first but not the second, again opting for the ill-advised drop shot. He really needs to put that club back in his bag today.
A bit more energy in the crowd and Schwartzman has one of his breaks back.
Second set: Djokovic 6-3 3-0 Schwartzman* (*denotes server): For the umpteenth time today Schwartzman struggles to 0-30 and for the umpteenth time today Djokovic opens his body and rips out that forehand down the line for a winner. The Argentinian saves his first break point of the match but he follows that up by dumping a volley into the net to hand his Serbian opponent a double break.
One-way traffic on Rod Laver Arena.
Second set: Djokovic* 6-3 2-0 Schwartzman (*denotes server): Simple hold for the champ, punctuated with more examples of his point exposition. His ability to hit with momentum from corner to corner, setting up the in-to-out forehand down the line to the open court is so technical and brilliant.
Second set: Djokovic 6-3 1-0 Schwartzman* (*denotes server): Again, errors abound as the score moves to 30-30 before Schwartzman invites pressure with a backhand slice into the net. A superb return from Djokovic sets up his second break of the match. For a man lacking weapons, Schwartzman is delivering far too inconsistently today, especially on serve. He’s going to need Djokovic to drop a level or two to remain in the hunt.
Milos Raonic, the 2016 semi-finalist, is back in the quarters. Marin Cilic’s entertaining run from outside the seeds is over. The Canadian awaits the winner of the match in progress on RLA.
How about this return to form from @milosraonic!
— ATP Tour (@atptour) January 26, 2020
He's into the #AusOpen quarters after defeating Cilic 6-4 6-3 7-5. pic.twitter.com/slekAAqtzx
First set: Djokovic* 6-3 Schwartzman (*denotes server): There are real peaks and troughs in this contest and game nine begins with a trough, Djokovic leaking to 15-30 with a double fault. He regains parity by wrong-footing Schwartzman and sending his opponent to the court in the process, the Argentinian’s shoes losing grip mid-turn. The Serbian then berates himself despite moving 40-30 ahead, unhappy with his approach prior to gliding into the net. He seals the opening set when his opponent’s return doesn’t clear the net.
Not an especially memorable opening set, but Novak Djokovic is on the board.
First set: Djokovic 5-3 Schwartzman* (*denotes server): A sloppy start to the game from both men sees the score drip to 30-30 before a rare killer serve sees Schwartzman edge ahead. Djokovic hits back to force deuce with one of the points of the match, testing his opponent’s defence to its limits before eventually engineering enough open court to hammer the winner.
The errors return during the first deuce before Djokovic comes out on top with an inside-out forehand down the line winner. The first break point of the day is on Djokovic’s racket and after a bruising baseline exchange Schwartzman blinks, finds the net, and the second seed will serve for the set.
Schwartzman is serving at just 54% so far. He can’t beat a man of Djokovic’s class with numbers like that.
First set: Djokovic* 4-3 Schwartzman (*denotes server): Djokovic concedes the opening point with another questionable drop shot but recovers to 30-15 with a classic Djokovic point, pounding massive forehands from corner to corner like George Foreman working a heavy bag. A second attempted drop shot comes off - just - as the seven-time champion sees out another routine service game.
First set: Djokovic 3-3 Schwartzman* (*denotes server): There are rarely cheap points on Schwartzman’s serve (he’s only 5’7”) but he is well below par today allowing Djokovic plenty of opportunity to take the ascendancy. For the third game in a row the Serbian is in with an early look but 0-30 quickly becomes 40-30 when the 14th seed steps on the gas and that converts into a hold when Schwartzman punishes a Djokovic net cord.
First set: Djokovic* 3-2 Schwartzman (*denotes server): Another easy hold for the defending champ.
Both men are among the best defenders on tour - heck, Djokovic is probably the best defensive player in tennis history - which means most rallies feature a shot or two more than might normally be expected. Djokovic is keen to test Schwartzman’s footwork, drawing him into the net with drop shots, but the Argentinian is rapid and has chased down each attempt so far.
First set: Djokovic 2-2 Schwartzman* (*denotes server): Schwartzman is only landing about half his first serves in this early phase of the match, and his second serves are pretty tame, allowing Djokovic plenty of opportunity to attack. The Serbian forces his way to 30-30 but for the second return game in a row a couple of cheap unforced errors end any thoughts of a break.
First set: Djokovic* 2-1 Schwartzman (*denotes server): Emphatic hold from Djokovic who is hitting his ground strokes with some serious intent. There is a resounding pop off the racket that is pushing Schwartzman onto his heels and making it difficult for last as long as he would hope going toe-to-toe.
First set: Djokovic 1-1 Schwartzman* (*denotes server): Djokovic asserts himself early in the game, powering to 0-30 with some powerful forehands crosscourt. Schwartzman then offers a tame second serve that Djokovic can’t capitalise on, before the second seed gifts four points in a row with some pretty ordinary errors by his high standards.
Djokovic has now dispensed with his cap, while Schwartzman’s is on back-to-front.
First set: Djokovic* 1-0 Schwartzman (*denotes server): Both players look in decent touch early on with Schwartzman moving well to cover plenty of ground during Djokovic’s opening service game. In particular, the Argentinian came out on top of a high-quality rally at 30-15 to send a message to his favoured opponent he will be a tough nut to crack.
A couple of errors extend the game to deuce but the Serbian nails a pair of first serves to see off any threat.
Both men are sporting white baseball caps for today’s match, an indication of the glare caused by the sunlight streaming through the open roof on RLA. Rod Laver, incidentally, is courtside for this one, deservedly occupying the best seats in the house. Margaret Court is a few seats along. All eyes will be on her tomorrow, the 50th anniversary of her calendar year grand slam.
Ok, Rod Laver Arena is now ready for the main event of the afternoon. Melbourne Park is bathed in warm sunshine with temperatures kept in check by a southerly breeze.
Second seed Novak Djokovic is out preparing for what promises to be a tough fourth round contest against 14th seed Diego Schwartzman. The defending champion was forced to work hard in his opening round but has since cruised beyond his next two opponents. Schwartzman, the 14th seed, is a major step up in class.
The Argentinian stands only 170cm tall, but what he lacks in stature he makes up for him determination. He has yet to drop a set during the championships and that includes breezing past the in-form Dusan Lajovic in round three.
Djokovic and Schwartzman have met three times previously, Djokovic winning them all, but the past two encounters (admittedly both on clay) have each gone the distance.
The schedule on RLA is delayed a smidgen by Petra Kvitova requiring three sets to work her way beyond Maria Sakkari. Novak Djokovic will be on court shortly.
SKILLS before DRILLS.
— judy murray (@JudyMurray) January 26, 2020
🎥 @DjokerNole having fun and creating competitive challenges with his brother. Still. At 32. Do what u love. Love what u do. ❤️🎾pic.twitter.com/3WRKZwjiPq
The first fourth round result of the day is in and it’s a rare victory for a favourite in the women’s draw. Petra Kvitova (7) needed to dig deep to force her way past Maria Sakkari (22) 6-7 6-3 6-2 but one of the most popular players on tour remains on course for her first grand slam title since 2014.
Next up for last year’s beaten finalist is a quarter-final against the winner of top seed Ash Barty’s clash with Alison Riske (18).
Great effort by @Petra_Kvitova to turn around her match with Maria Sakkari, totally dominant in sets two and three. Into the quarters and maybe another clash with Barty
— Simon Cambers (@scambers73) January 26, 2020
Some terrific Australia Day news for the Olyroos. They defeated Uzbekistan overnight to secure the final Asian qualification spot for Tokyo 2020.
An early check on 2018 finalist Marin Cilic, and the news isn’t great.
.@cilic_marin has taken a medical timeout for his lower back.
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 26, 2020
He trails Raonic by a set and a break. #AO2020 | #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/L8q50QDXN8
AUSSIE AUSSIE AUSSIE!!!
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 26, 2020
Wildcards @JamesDuck21/@marcpolmans are into the men's doubles quarterfinals after upsetting 10th seeds Pavic/Soares 7-6(2) 2-6 7-6(9).#AO2020 | #AusOpen | #DoublesDownUnder pic.twitter.com/egQzLPBtES
There’s also some more positive news for Ash Barty who adds to her growing collection of gongs with an Australian of the Year honour.
The big news from overnight is the continued presence of Nick Kyrgios in the Australian Open draw. His gritty victory against Karen Khachanov has set up a mouth-watering fourth round contest against old foe Rafael Nadal.
Preamble
Hello everybody and welcome to an action-packed Australia Day Sportwatch.
It’s going to be a day of two halves on this page. In between the lamingtons and Hot-100, the early phase will focus on day seven of the Australian Open with game-by-game coverage of Novak Djokovic’s fourth round clash with Diego Schwartzman. That one gets underway shortly on Rod Laver Arena. As the day progresses we’ll bring you all the other scores and news from around Melbourne Park with a schedule featuring Petra Kvitova, Marin Cilic and Coco Gauff, among others.
After 6pm (AEST) we’ll hand over the tennis to its own dedicated night session liveblog and this page will focus on Australian domestic sport. The headline acts will be Western United v Adelaide United in the A-League (6pm k.o.), and Adelaide Strikers v Hobart Hurricanes in the BBL (7.10pm start).
In amongst all that we have the conclusion of the Tour Down Under, Melbourne Victory v Canberra United in the W-League, and Sydney Thunder v Perth Scorchers in the early BBL clash to update you on.
If you want to join in at any point throughout the day, you can reach me by email: jonathan.howcroft.casual@theguardian.com or Twitter: @JPHowcroft.
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