BBL 13 (Game 41 – Qualifier) – Sydney Sixes vs Brisbane Heat
The Sydney Sixers secured a resounding victory over Brisbane Heat, also booking their spot in the Big Bash Final. Ben Dwarshius single handedly toppled the Heat in the second innings, winning the match for his side by 39 runs.
Opting to bat, Sixers faced a disciplined bowling effort from Heat initially, with a couple of early wickets causing some concerns. However, skipper Moises Henriques emerged as the savior for Sixers, capitalizing on being dropped twice in his early twenties. A dynamic partnership between Henriques and Daniel Hughes during the Power Surge propelled Sixers to a competitive total of 152 for 8 in 20 overs.
Sydney Sixers’ bowlers continued the momentum into the second innings, stifling Brisbane Heat’s batting lineup. The Heat, missing key batters, struggled to establish partnerships, and none of the players managed to play an anchor role. Josh Brown’s slow innings added pressure, and despite attempts from Jimmy Peirson and Matt Renshaw, Heat succumbed to an insurmountable chase, finishing at 113 all out in 17.5 overs. Ben Dwarshuis emerged as the hero for Sixers, securing a stunning five-wicket haul, including the vital dismissal of Josh Brown, to dismantle the Heat’s batting order.
With this emphatic victory, Sydney Sixers have earned the right to host the BBL Final at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground. Despite a recent struggle in the Finals, the Sixers, the second-most decorated team in BBL history, displayed experience and composure in critical moments. The pacers upfront, led by captain Moises Henriques, delivered a commendable performance, setting the tone for a dominant display. The Heat, though disappointed, will have another opportunity at the same venue in a knockout clash against the Strikers. The upcoming Final promises an electrifying encounter as Sydney Sixers aim to add another championship to their illustrious BBL history.
Chief Scores:
Sydney Sixers – 152 for 8 in 20 overs (Moises Henriques 59, Daniel Hughes 42, Jack Edwards 16, Michael Nesser 3 for 27, Spencer Johnson 2 for 14, Paul Walter 2 for 23)
Brisbane Heat 113 for 10 in 17.5 overs (Jimmy Peirson 26, Matt Renshaw 16, Josh Brown 15, Ben Dwarshuis 5 for 21, Hayden Kerr 2 for 18, Jack Edwards 2 for 26)