BBL Match Prediction | Big Bash League 2024-25 | Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder | Challenger | Jan 24 – who do you think will get the finale ticket? 

SS vs ST Match Analysis

Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder will play each other in the Big Bash League 2024-25 challenger game on January 24, 2025, at 02:15 PM BST at Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney.

The Sydney Sixers fell 12 runs short in their Qualifier match against the Hobart Hurricanes in Hobart. However, their second-place finish in the group stage offers them another opportunity to reach the finals via the Challenger match.

Sydney Thunder moved one step closer to the Final with a win over the Melbourne Stars, setting up an intense Challenger showdown against their city rivals, the Sixers. 

SS vs ST Team Preview & Squads

Sydney Sixers

The Sydney Sixers will look to leverage their resilience and the performances that have brought them this far. Skipper Moises Henriques has been a key contributor, scoring 207 runs in nine innings at a strike rate of 129.37. Josh Philippe has also been reliable, amassing 179 runs with an impressive strike rate of 139.

Jordan Silk has excelled under pressure, scoring 153 runs in seven innings, including a notable 57 off 44 balls in the match against the Hurricanes.

In the bowling department of SS, Ben Dwarshius has been a consistent threat, claiming 14 wickets with an economy rate of 8.78. He’s also made valuable lower-order contributions, smashing 116 runs at a strike rate nearing 181. Jack Edwards and Hayden Kerr round out the attack, both capable of delivering match-winning spells.

Sydney Sixers Squads

Sydney Sixers Squads

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

Sydney Thunder

Sydney Thunder capitalized on their home advantage to defeat the Melbourne Stars and set up a much-anticipated Challenger clash against the Sixers on Friday night. Their familiarity with ENGIE Stadium’s slow pitch proved crucial, as the Thunder’s bowlers expertly defended a modest total of 7-135, securing a 21-run victory and ending the Stars’ impressive comeback streak.

Captain David Warner, who was dismissed for a duck in the Knockout, has been a standout performer this season, amassing 346 runs in 10 innings with a strike rate of 141.22. After this rare setback, he will be eager to bounce back with a commanding performance in the Challenger.

Sam Billings has been in fine form, contributing 208 runs across nine innings at a strike rate of 130. Meanwhile, Oliver Davies showcased his composure under pressure with a vital 36-run knock in the Knockout.

ST’s bowling unit has been the cornerstone of their success, with off-spinner Chris Green consistently delivering 12 wickets and an economy rate of 7.14 in nine games. Nathan McAndrew turned the Knockout on its head with an exceptional spell of 5-16, underlining his ability to deliver game-changing performances. Wes Agar and Tanveer Sangha further bolster an already reliable bowling attack.

Sydney Thunder Squads

Sydney Thunder Squads

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

Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder outfield report 

Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney

Since it’s an elimination game, we predict that both sides will want to bat first to get a high total and win the match.

The weather in Sydney is improving. There will be some cloud cover and a little wind, which will be ideal for seam bowlers. Fortunately, there should be no rain, so we have a good chance of a full contest.

At the Sydney Cricket Ground, batsmen often love the pitch, although later in the game, spinners do settle in. Particularly in the evening, there is an incentive to play aggressively because the ball is coming onto the bat wonderfully.   

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

In their last five matches, ST won none and SS won 3.

Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder Prediction

Cricket analysts predict the Sydney Sixers have a 56% 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.