Big Bash League, Sixers vs Renegades: Preview, Prediction and Fantasy Tips

Melbourne Renegades have had a dream run so far [source: Twitter]

On Wednesday, Sydney Sixers and Melbourne Renegades will take on each other in the 18th match of the ongoing Big Bash League. The game is scheduled at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground. 

Team Preview: Sydney Sixers

The Sixers had a disastrous start to their BBL 12 campaign, losing first two matches. However, they made a remarkable comeback, winning the next two fixtures against Hobart Hurricanes and Melbourne Stars. 

Their batting has been decent in the last two matches, with Kurtis Patterson, Joshua Phillippe and Moises Henriques being amongst the runs. 

On the bowling front, Sean Abbott has been fairly consistent, scalping seven wickets at a brilliant strike rate of 12. However, moving on to this game, they would like better returns from the likes of Dan Christian, James Vince and Naveen-ul-Haq. 

Team Preview: Melbourne Renegades

On the other hand, the Renegades had a dream start to their BBL 12 campaign, winning their first three games convincingly. 

Their only defeat came in the last game, where they fell short of the target of 123 by only nine runs, courtesy of an exceptional bowling performance from the Hurricanes' bowling unit. 

Skipper Nic Maddinson has led from the front, scoring 128 runs at a blistering strike rate of 154.21. Former captain Aaron Finch has also stepped up, using his experience when it mattered the most. However, they would like Jon Wells to contribute some handy runs, which he hasn't done so far in the tournament. 

Meanwhile, the Renegades bowlers have been absolutely phenomenal so far. Akeal Hosein has been sensational, while Tom Rogers has surprised everyone with his wicket-taking ability. Although Kane Richardson hasn't been amongst the wickets, he has recorded a superb economy of 6.67. 

Match Details

Date and Time: December 27, 01.45 PM IST
Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney
Live Streaming: Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV App

Pitch Report: The surface at the SCG traditionally assists spinners and bowlers with variations. The average score usually stands between 150-160. But as the track doesn't really slow down, the toss-winner will likely field first. 

Predicted XIs

Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb are available for this clash and will likely replace Andre Russell (unavailable) and Sam Harper, respectively. Kane Richardson will likely replace Mujeeb Ur Rahman, as David Moody was fabulous in the last game. 

On the contrary, the Sixers will likely continue with the same team. 

Melbourne Renegades: Nic Maddinson, Shaun Marsh, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Finch, Peter Handscomb (WK), Jon Wells, Akeal Hosein, Will Sutherland, Tom Rogers, Kane Richardson, David Moody

Sydney Sixers: Kurtis Patterson, Josh Philippe, James Vince, Moises Henriques, Jordan Silk, Dan Christian, Hayden Kerr, Sean Abbott, Steve O'Keefe, Izharulhaq Naveed, Jackson Bird

Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips

Wicket-Keeper: Josh Philippe
Batters: Aaron Finch, Moises Henriques, Jordan Silk, Shaun Marsh
All-Rounders: Sean Abbott, Nic Maddinson, Hayden Kerr
Bowlers: Akeal Hosein, Tom Rogers, Jackson Bird

Captain: Akeal Hosein
Vice Captain: Hayden Kerr

Prediction

Considering the strengths and form of both teams, we reckon the Renegades will emerge victorious in this match. 

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