A seagull was struck by a cricket ball during a Big Bash League match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Thursday night. The incident occurred during the Sydney Sixers’ innings.
A flock of seagulls had landed on the field during the Sixers’ run chase. James Vince hit a powerful shot straight down the ground off the bowling of Melbourne Stars’ Joel Paris.
The ball travelled towards the boundary and unfortunately hit a seagull. The impact sent the ball over the boundary for six runs. A security guard removed the seagull from the field.
Watch: Seagull injured after being hit by cricket ball in Big Bash League
Ben Duckett, Vince’s England teammate, was asked about the incident. “It didn’t look too nice; it actually hit him so hard,” Duckett said.
“Now I’m absolutely swarmed by them. I’ve never fielded like this when I’ve got all of this going on in front of me,” he added.
Shortly after the incident, more seagulls flew onto the field. Vince hit a high shot towards the boundary off the bowling of Usama Mir.
Duckett, who was fielding for Melbourne Stars, attempted to catch the ball but dropped the chance, possibly due to the presence of the seagulls.
Vince eventually got out for 53 runs. The Melbourne Stars won the match by 16 runs, keeping their finals hopes alive.
