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BBL 10 Match Preview: Resurgent Scorchers take on top of the table Sixers


Perth Scorchers have just managed to avoid being at the bottom of the Big Bash League (BBL) table at this stage of the tournament. And for that, they have to thank the miserable performance of Melbourne Renegades than anything else. Now, they go into their next match with the uphill task of facing the table-toppers, as of now, Sydney Sixers. 

The Sixers are ruling the roost at the moment because of a balanced side and good performances from their players, regardless of their profile. The Sydney-based side is a prime example of substance over style as they don’t have that many big stars in their ranks but still, have managed to make an impression thanks to the contributions of several players. 

Scorchers Need More Relief

The Scorchers were also in a rut like Renegades until their last two games where things finally started to fall in place. Also, they are now playing on their home soil, which is a bigger advantage for this team than any other due to the unique nature of the Perth surface. 

They have also been boosted hugely by the arrival of Jason Roy. His contribution to England’s World Cup-winning campaign is a testament to the impact he can make. With Scorchers too, he has brought about a turnaround, and it’s not entirely a co-incidence. 

A good start is extremely crucial for a T20 team and Roy’s performances in his first two matches have been commendable. He is also receiving good support from the middle order. Colin Munro has finally found form and Mitchell Marsh is too hitting the ball well. Captain Ashton Turner has been striking the ball cleanly too in recent games. 

In the bowling department, the fact that Fawad Ahmed got good figures in the last game would be a huge relief. Granted, he bowled mostly at the tailenders, still, wickets and tight overs will help his confidence. The four-pronged pace attack of Jason Behrendorff, Andrew Tye, Jhye Richardson, and Aaron Hardie will get more help from the pitch at Optus Stadium. Hardie, especially, has provided great support to the frontline bowlers. 

Sixers Hitting it out of the Park

While Scorchers are looking better, they will face an in-form Sixers with the flow of form behind them. The batting line up of the table-toppers is getting better and better. The opening combine of Josh Phillippe and Jack Edwards are providing decent starts, though not spectacular, and the middle order is building on the foundation laid by them. 

The likes of Jordan Silk, Daniel Hughes, and James Vince are highly-capable batsmen. They have all contributed to the team’s efforts so far in this season. Daniel Christian and Carlos Brathwaite provide great firepower down the order, though the former hasn’t been very successful with the ball. 

There is some concern though, in the bowling department. With Jason Holder gone, there is a danger of a weak link there. Despite not having a high-profile spinner in their line-up, the Sixers have managed to restrict other sides. Ben Manenti has done a laudable job for his team and Steve O’Keefe can be useful if he comes in. 

The new arrival Jake Ball is yet to get going. A lot is riding on his form. His performance will be watched closely. Ben Dwarshuis has been leading the attack and he will need Ball to provide assistance on the Perth wicket. 

Scorchers vs Sixers: Match Details

Venue: Optus Stadium, Perth

Date and Time: January 6, 1:45 PM IST, 4:15 PM Local, 8:15 IST

Broadcaster: Sony Sports Network, Sony LIV

Pitch Report

The pitch at Optus Stadium shares many of the characteristics of the famed WACA. There is ample bounce for the seamers. But this bounce can also turn against the pacers if they err in length. The batsmen can use this bounce to clear the boundaries, something the likes of Mitchell Marsh are very good at. 

Weather and Toss

Perth is known for its hot weather in the summer and the heat would be on during this match as well. Due to the early start, players will have to bear the high temperatures before the evening brings some respite. Batting first may be an ideal choice. 

Probable XIs

Scorchers: Jason Roy, Liam Livingstone, Josh Inglis (Wk), Colin Munro, Mitchell Marsh, Ashton Turner (C), Aaron Hardie, Jhye Richardson, Andrew Tye, Jason Behrendorff, Fawad Ahmed

Sixers: Josh Phillippe (Wk), Jack Edwards, James Vince, Daniel Hughes (C), Jordan Silk, Daniel Christian, Carlos Brathwaite, Ben Dwarshuis, Benjamin Manenti, Jake Ball, Steve O’Keefe

 

 

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