BBL Match Prediction | Big Bash League 2024-25 | Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder | Match 37 | Jan 17 – Can ST win against the table-topper SS? 

SS vs ST Match Analysis

Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder will play each other in the Big Bash League 2024-25 37th game on January 17, 2025, at 02:15 PM BST at Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney.

The Sydney Sixers have reclaimed the top spot in the standings after securing two consecutive wins, including an exhilarating chase of 183 against the Adelaide Strikers, achieved with only one ball remaining.

The Sydney Thunder secured a place in the BBL|14 finals with a dominant win against the Scorchers at home on Monday night, marking a remarkable turnaround from last season when they finished last with only one win.

SS vs ST Team Preview & Squads

Sydney Sixers

Steven Smith’s return has provided a significant boost for the Sydney Sixers. In his season debut against the Scorchers, he smashed an unbeaten 121 off just 64 deliveries and followed it up with a solid half-century against the Strikers. This match will be Smith’s last for the Sixers before departing for the Sri Lanka tour.

Alongside Smith, Josh Philippe and Moises Henriques have been dependable with the bat, consistently contributing runs throughout the season.

On the bowling front of SS, Ben Dwarshius has been a standout performer, claiming 12 wickets with an economy rate of 8.78. He has also added valuable runs down the order, scoring 100 at a strike rate close to 180. Sean Abbott and Hayden Kerr complete the attack, both capable of delivering game-changing spells.

Sydney Sixers Squads

Sydney Sixers Squads

Jordan Silk, Mitchell Perry, Todd Murphy, Akeal Hosein, Jackson Bird, James Vince, Kurtis Patterson, Ben Dwarshuis, Moises Henriques, Josh Philippe, Joel Davies, Hayden Kerr, Ben Manenti, Daniel Hughes, Jafer Chohan, Sean Abbott, Steven Smith, and Jack Edwards.

Sydney Thunder

Sam Konstas continued his impressive run, battling his way to a gritty fifty on a spin-friendly pitch. The Sydney Thunder’s spinners then dismantled Perth, restricting them to just 97 runs. The win gave a significant boost to their net run rate, setting up an exciting Sydney Smash at the SCG on Friday.

The ST have remained near the top of the standings throughout the season, despite dealing with a spate of injuries that sidelined up to six players from their original squad of 18. David Warner has been instrumental in their success, providing both leadership and runs, with 324 from 8 innings.

Sam Billings is another key player to watch, having amassed 185 runs in 8 innings at an impressive strike rate of 136.

In the bowling department, Chris Green has been the standout performer, taking 11 wickets in 8 matches while maintaining an economical 7.32 runs per over. Wes Agar and Nathan McAndrew have also been effective, combining for 15 wickets. The return of Tanveer Sangha adds depth to a versatile and formidable bowling attack.

Sydney Thunder Squads

Sydney Thunder Squads

Sherfane Rutherford, Tanveer Sangha, Liam Hatcher, Matthew Gilkes, Wes Agar, Lockie Ferguson, Ryan Hadley, Oliver Davies, David Warner, Nathan McAndrew, Daniel Sams, Sam Billings, Nic Maddinson, William Salzmann, Chris Green, Jason Sangha, Cameron Bancroft, and Sam Konstas.

Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder outfield report 

Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney

Both captains are expected to field first in this match due to the forecast of showers in Sydney on Friday. 

This week, Sydney’s weather has been problematic. The weather forecast for Saturday is bleak, and it has rained quite a bit. The activity could be quickly disrupted by the likelihood of cloud cover, breezes, and perhaps thunderstorms.

The Sydney Cricket Ground usually has a batting-friendly surface, but as the game progresses, spinners have an opportunity to contribute. Especially in the evening, aggressive play is encouraged by the ball’s propensity to come into the bat nicely.   

Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches

In their last five matches, ST won none and SS won 4.

Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder Prediction

Cricket analysts predict the Sydney Sixers have a 52% chance of winning.

Disclaimer: This cricket prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.