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Mike Hussey bows out with Big Bash League glory

Australian cricketer Mike Hussey retires as a winner of the Big Bash League thanks to the Sydney Thunder's triumph over the Melbourne Stars.

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.

Michael Hussey walks off after being dismissed by Adam Zampa during the Big Bash League final match between Melbourne Stars and the Sydney Thunder at Melbourne Cricket Ground on January 24, 2016© Getty Images

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.

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Liam Apicella
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England's Kevin Pietersen leaves the pitch after losing his wicket for 6 runs during the third one day international (ODI) cricket match between England and Australia at Edgbaston cricket ground in Birmingham, central England on September 11, 2013
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