Perth Scorchers spinner Brad Hogg is likely to face a fine after giving David Hussey a fiery send-off in Monday’s BBL clash at the MCG.
Monday’s 20-run win by the Stars gives them a perfect 8-0 record going into their home semi-final at the MCG against fourth-placed Hobart Hurricanes on February 4.
The Scorchers (5-3) qualify in third spot and have missed the chance for a home semi-final against the Sydney Sixers (6-2) who will host the Perth side on February 5 in their knockout clash at the SCG.
Hussey was run out for six by a jubilant Scorchers captain Simon Katich.
As the visiting side gathered in celebration, an angry Hussey walked back towards the fielding group and argued with them.
Hussey tried to make a joke of the incident when interviewed by Channel Ten later in the game.
“George Bradley Hogg, I couldn’t quite make out his English. He told me where to go,” Hussey said.
Cricket Australia said while the umpires’ report had not been officially completed, Hogg could face a possible fine and reprimand.
“The match umpires will look at that incident in question and we’ll advise accordingly tomorrow,” a spokesperson said.
The Stars made 6-161 led by acting captain Brad Hodge’s 61, before John Hastings stepped up with the ball to take 3-20 in the Scorchers’ innings of 9-141.
Hastings said he wasn’t aware until game day that Pakistan import Mohammad Hafeez had arrived and was ready to play against the Scorchers as a replacement for Lasith Malinga who has been recalled by the Sri Lanka board for a training camp.
“That was probably the most important win we could have all season,” Hastings said.
“We didn’t know if we were going to have a team. We didn’t know if Hafeez was coming.
“The way the boys just brushed it all aside, came out and played like that … very good.”
The Stars, who won the toss, were missing several key players on Australian duties including Cameron White, Glenn Maxwell, James Muirhead, Matthew Wade and Clint McKay.
Scorchers’ spinner Michael Beer (2-27) struck two early blows, dismissing Luke Wright (13) and Hafeez (four).
Hodge took charge, thumping nine boundaries off 43 balls.
Hogg had a poor day, taking 0-36 off three overs.
Katich top-scored with 30 for the Scorchers despite a broken finger.
Debutant swing bowler Dan Worrall claimed 2-29 for the Stars.
“I don’t think invincibility is the right word, but there is a lot of confidence, definitely,” Hastings said.
“It was important today for us to have another win and show that we can do it with anyone, not just our superstars who are away but with guys who are in there who stepped up today.”
Katich is confident the Scorchers can bounce back.
“We’ve been comprehensively beaten today by a team that has lost probably seven of its best players.”
