Related Articles
Get ready for an electrifying Sydney Smash as the Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder lock horns at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Friday, January 17, 2025, in Match 37 of the BBL|14 season. Both teams have already secured a spot in the playoffs, but this match carries high stakes. The winner will claim a top-two finish and a valuable safety net in the playoffs. Expect both teams to bring their A-game in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Match Details
| Match | Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder, Match 37 |
|---|---|
| Date | January 17, 2025 |
| Time | 7:15 PM Local / 1:45 PM IST |
| Venue | Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney |
| Weather | Cloudy, possible showers, 22–25°C |
Team Preview
Sydney Sixers
The Sydney Sixers have returned to the top of the table with two consecutive wins. Their thrilling chase of 183 against the Adelaide Strikers highlighted their resilience and form. Steven Smith’s return has been a game-changer; his unbeaten 121 against the Scorchers and a solid 52 against the Strikers have propelled the Sixers to victory. However, this will be Smith’s final appearance before leaving for international duty.
Josh Philippe and Moises Henriques add stability to the batting lineup, while Ben Dwarshius offers contributions with both bat and ball. Sean Abbott and Hayden Kerr form a strong bowling duo capable of delivering match-winning spells.
Key Players: Steven Smith, Josh Philippe, Ben Dwarshius
Predicted Playing XI:
Josh Philippe (wk), Steven Smith, Jack Edwards, Moises Henriques (c), Jordan Silk, Lachlan Shaw, Ben Dwarshuis, Hayden Kerr, Sean Abbott, Jafer Chohan, Todd Murphy
Sydney Thunder
The Thunder have secured their playoff spot with a dominant win against the Scorchers. Sam Konstas has been a revelation, with a gritty 53 in the previous match on a challenging pitch. Captain David Warner has been the backbone of the batting unit, scoring 324 runs in eight innings. Sam Billings provides explosive firepower in the middle order.
Their bowling attack, led by Chris Green and supported by Nathan McAndrew and Tanveer Sangha, has been instrumental in their success. Chris Green’s three-wicket haul in the last game showcased his ability to choke the opposition.
Key Players: David Warner, Sam Konstas, Chris Green
Predicted Playing XI:
Sam Konstas, David Warner (c), Matthew Gilkes, Sam Billings (wk), Hugh Weibgen, Chris Green, Nathan McAndrew, George Garton, Tom Andrews, Tanveer Sangha, Mohammad Hasnain
Fantasy Team XI
| Player | Team | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Steven Smith (C) | Sydney Sixers | Batter |
| David Warner (VC) | Sydney Thunder | Batter |
| Sam Konstas | Sydney Thunder | Batter |
| Josh Philippe | Sydney Sixers | Wicketkeeper |
| Moises Henriques | Sydney Sixers | Batter |
| Sam Billings | Sydney Thunder | Wicketkeeper |
| Ben Dwarshuis | Sydney Sixers | All-rounder |
| Chris Green | Sydney Thunder | Bowler |
| Sean Abbott | Sydney Sixers | Bowler |
| Tanveer Sangha | Sydney Thunder | Bowler |
| Nathan McAndrew | Sydney Thunder | Bowler |
Pitch Report
The SCG is known for its batting-friendly surface, with an average first-innings score of 158. Spinners can extract assistance as the game progresses, while pacers with variations might also find success.
- Highest BBL Score: 213/4 (Sydney Sixers vs Scorchers)
- Toss Prediction: With rain in the forecast, both captains might prefer to bowl first to avoid the DLS factor.
Winning Prediction
The Sydney Sixers have dominated recent matchups against the Thunder, including a victory earlier this season. The Thunder have shown grit but face challenges with injuries. Considering the Sixers’ recent form and Steven Smith’s influence, they are favorites to win this clash.
Prediction: Sydney Sixers to win.
CricketPandith Match Prediction Package
Per Match Charges: 1000 Rs/Match
Monthly Package: 5000 Rs/Month (Unlimited Match)
All International/League Match Prediction Available
Download Our Cricket Pandith Android App
