Sydney Sixers will face Sydney Thunder for the Challenger match in BBL 14 [Source: @SixersBBL/X.com]
The stage is set for a high-octane encounter between the thrilling semi-finale or what is called a 'Challenger' match in the BBL. The Challenger match will be hosted by the Sydney Cricket Ground where the two teams Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder will face each other. The match is scheduled for January 24 and is set to commence at 1:45 PM IST.
Sydney Sixers
The Sydney Sixers faced a tough 12-run defeat against the Hobart Hurricanes in the BBL Qualifier, falling short in their pursuit of 174 runs. After a disastrous start with 3 wickets down for just 5 runs, Kurtis Patterson (48) and Jordan Silk (57 off 44) mounted a spirited fightback with a 75-run partnership. However, regular strikes by the Hurricanes' bowlers in the death overs, coupled with tight spells during the Power Surge, left the Sixers short of the target.
With the loss, the Sixers now prepare to regroup and face the Sydney Thunder in the Challenger, which is technically a do-or-die match for both the teams fighting it there.
Sydney Thunder
Sydney Thunder head into the Challenger match brimming with confidence after a commanding 21-run victory over Melbourne Stars in the Knockout. Despite posting a modest 135/7 in 19 overs, thanks to contributions from Matthew Gilkes, Sam Billings, and Ollie Davies, the Thunder's bowlers stole the show.
Nathan McAndrew delivered a stellar performance with a five-wicket haul, conceding just 16 runs, while Tanveer Sangha and Tom Andrew provided crucial breakthroughs, including the prized wicket of Glenn Maxwell. This comprehensive bowling display underscores Thunder's resilience and form, making them a formidable side as they prepare to face the Sydney Sixers for a spot in the BBL Final.
SIX vs THU: Head-to-Head Records
Matches | Sydney Sixers Won | Sydney Thunder Won | No Result |
---|---|---|---|
27 | 18 | 7 | 2 |
How Will the Sydney Cricket Ground Pitch Behave?
The SCG generally favours batters in men's T20 cricket and the BBL also saw some high-scoring matches where the average stands around 190. On the pitch, spinners are likely to play a crucial role in the second innings, particularly given the potential wear and tear on the pitch from recent cricket activities. With chasing teams dominating the ground so far, it is likely that the toss-winning captain would like to bowl first on the pitch to take advantage of the worn-out pitch later with the bat.
Players To Watch Out For In SIX vs THU Challenger Match
Sydney Sixers
Ben Dwarshuis
Ben Dwarshuis has been a standout bowler for the Sixers this tournament and has also been one of the most economical of the lot. Boasting 14 wickets in his 10 matches, he packs the punches to set the Thunder batters for a ride.
Jordan Silk
Jordan Silk was absolutely explosive in the qualifier match with his 57 off 44. He tried to salvage the chase but the required run rate was too much to cover at a later stage. However, he might step up to the occasion this time as he also boasts an impressive strike rate of 129.66 in this season of BBL.
Kurtis Patterson
The reliable opener for the Sixers, Kurtis Patterson boasts a strike rate of 130.77 in his 5 matches. He has the ability to build an innings and stay long on the crease giving stability to the batting lineup. Hence, he might shine again in the upcoming Challenger match proving his mettle in the decider.
Sydney Thunder
Nathan McAndrew
Nathan McAndrew was one of the engineers behind Melbourne Stars' downfall. The pacer one-handedly dismantled Stars batting lineup with his 5-fer as he conceded only 16 runs. His impressive form might continue in the Challenger match too, giving Thunder an upper hand against the Sixers.
Chris Green
Chris Green is a valuable all-rounder for the Thunder as he managed 12 wickets in his 9 matches at an economy rate of 7.15. He can also explode with the bat when needed and hence can emerge to be a star performer for Thunder both with the bat and the ball.
David Warner
David Warner has shown some glamorous performances in this season of BBL with figures of 88, 86, 50 and boasts a strike rate of 141.22. Though he performed poorly in his last outing, he will be hungry to obliterate the bowlers in the upcoming match to add to his enormous tally of 346 runs in BBL 14.
Today's Match Prediction: SIX vs THU Challenger Match
Predicted Top Performers
Sydney Sixers: Ben Dwarshuis, Jordan Silk, Kurtis Patterson
Sydney Thunder: Nathan McAndrew, Chris Green, David Warner
SIX vs THU Challenger Match: Predicted Score
Predicted first innings score: 170-180
Predicted second innings score: 180-190
Predicted Result: The team choosing to bowl first will likely have the upper hand in this match.