By Dwayne Ferreira
The Perth Scorchers further cemented their status as the Big Bash League’s ultimate powerhouse last night, clinching a dominant six-wicket victory over the Sydney Sixers at a roaring Optus Stadium. Before a record home crowd of 55,018, the Scorchers’ disciplined bowling unit and a clinical top-order chase dismantled their long-standing rivals to secure a historic sixth BBL title.
After Perth captain Ashton Turner won the toss and elected to field, the decision bore fruit almost immediately. Despite a steady start from the Sixers’ marquee names, the Scorchers’ pace attack, led by a relentless David Payne (3/18), never allowed the visitors to break free. The turning point arrived when dangerman Steve Smith (24) was trapped LBW by Aaron Hardie following a successful review—a blow from which the Sixers’ momentum never truly recovered.
Sydney’s middle order offered glimpses of resistance, with Josh Philippe and captain Moises Henriques both chipping in with 24, but the disciplined Scorchers’ attack kept the run rate under a stranglehold. Jhye Richardson (3/32) provided crucial support at the death, ensuring the Sixers were bundled out for a modest 132 on the final ball of their innings.
The chase began with a statement of intent that brought the Perth faithful to their feet. Mitchell Marsh, Australia’s T20 captain, launched the very first ball of the innings over the ropes for six, setting a frantic pace for the Powerplay. Marsh (44) combined with the tournament’s leading run-scorer, Finn Allen (36 off 22), for a blistering 80-run opening stand that effectively silenced the Sydney defense.
Though Mitchell Starc managed to remove Allen courtesy of a spectacular one-handed catch from Jack Edwards, and Sean Abbott claimed the wickets of Hardie and Marsh in quick succession, the result was never in doubt. Josh Inglis (29*) remained composed under the lights, finishing the match in emphatic style by smashing a six over long-off to seal the championship with 15 balls to spare.
Chief Scores:
• Sydney Sixers – 132 all out in 20 overs (Steve Smith 24, Josh Philippe 24, Moises Henriques 24, David Payne 3/18, Jhye Richardson 3/32)
• Perth Scorchers – 133 for 4 in 17.3 overs (Mitchell Marsh 44, Finn Allen 36, Josh Inglis 29*, Sean Abbott 2/28, Mitchell Starc 1/35)
Player of the Match – David Payne (3/18)
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