Mike Hussey bows out with Big Bash League glory

Mike Hussey's playing career ended on a positive note this morning as Sydney Thunder beat the Melbourne Stars to win the fifth instalment of the Big Bash League.

The 40-year-old, who announced his decision to retire prior to the tournament getting underway, scored 18 runs as his side successfully chased down the 176 victory target that they had been set by the Stars.

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It was former England batsman Kevin Pietersen that top-scored for the Stars with a knock of 74 from 39 deliveries before he was caught and bowled by Chris Green.

However, Pietersen's exploits went ultimately unrewarded as a 70-run contribution from Usman Khawaja proved crucial for the Thunder.

They eventually reached 181-7 with three balls to spare to beat the Stars, who incidentally were skippered by Hussey's brother David on what was their mother's birthday.