In an exciting contest at the Adelaide Oval, Sydney Sixers emerged victorious by 3 wickets in the 35th match of the Big Bash League (BBL)|14. Chasing down a target of 183 set by Adelaide Strikers, the Sixers, led by Steve Smith’s brilliant half-century, managed to keep their cool and claim the win in a thrilling encounter.
Adelaide Strikers post a challenging total
Sydney Sixers won the toss and chose to bowl first. The decision to field appeared to pay off, as the bowlers kept the Strikers’ top order in check. Despite a strong knock from Ollie Pope and Alex Ross, the Sixers’ bowlers maintained the pressure throughout the innings, with Jack Edwards and Todd Murphy both taking two wickets each. Ben Dwarshuis also chipped in with a crucial wicket.
Adelaide Strikers set a competitive total of 182/5 in their 20 overs. Pope top-scored for the Strikers with an excellent 57 off 39 balls, including 3 fours and 2 sixes. Ross also played a vital knock, contributing 48 off 37 balls with 4 fours and 1 six. Both batters built solid partnerships, but the Strikers were unable to accelerate in the latter stages of the innings, allowing the Sixers’ bowlers to reign in the run rate.
Sydney Sixers’ response: Steve Smith steers the ship
Chasing 183, Sydney Sixers were off to a steady start, but it was Smith who anchored the chase with a scintillating 52 off 31 balls. His knock included 2 fours and 4 sixes, showcasing his power-hitting ability. Alongside him, Lachlan Shaw made a valuable contribution with 32 off 21 balls. Smith’s composure under pressure was crucial as the Sixers steadily chipped away at the target.
The Strikers bowled well but couldn’t quite break the back of the Sixers’ chase. Jamie Overton and Lloyd Pope both picked up two wickets, while Brendan Doggett, Jordan Buckingham, and Henry Thornton each took one wicket. Despite the pressure from the Strikers’ bowlers, the Sixers were able to maintain control of the chase, with Smith leading the charge. The Sydney Sixers finished their innings at 183/7 in 20 overs, securing a thrilling 3-wicket victory. Smith was named the Player of the Match award for his match-winning knock.
Also WATCH: Lachlan Shaw takes a screamer to dismiss Alex Ross in BBL| 14
Here is how fans reacted on X:
The Sydney Sixers have got to be the most dependable sporting franchise in Australia. It’s crazy how they find a way to get it done in clutch moments 95% of the time.
— Dustin Spriggs (@DustinSpriggs4) January 15, 2025
Talked about the Sydney Sixers batting depth was the best in the comp earlier in the season and it has definitely won them a game having Abbott batting 9 is just dumb.#BBL14
— Ky Broome (@KyBroome35) January 15, 2025
Sydney Sixers. What a team. They just win. #bbl14
— Tim Michell (@tim_michell) January 15, 2025
Steve Smith should skip practice for the Srilanka series and play in the BBL final….nothing better than lifting the BBL trophy in front of a 45k crowd at the SCG. #BBL14
— smithy (@stevesmith50) January 15, 2025
Well played Steve smith
— Pradeep Tiwari (@tpradeep113) January 15, 2025
🚨 ADELAIDE STRIKERS ARE ALMOST OUT OF THE TOURNAMENT 🚨 pic.twitter.com/ihix9NmDSK
— Aashutosh Goswami (@imAashutoshh) January 15, 2025
Adelaide strikers bowling unit are so fckng hopeless I really cant believe they get paid. They should only get paid after every game. Clearly on a fckng holiday. No brains, no skill. Useless #bbl#australia #t20
— WadeParker47 (@spideypool7777) January 15, 2025
Got the job done 😤
See you Friday, Sixers fans 🩷#LIKEASIXER #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/erIigj4fw7
— Sydney Sixers (@SixersBBL) January 15, 2025
The @SixersBBL get it done with one ball to spare!
And that signals the end of the finals hopes for the @StrikersBBL. #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/QuXw2gfqWW
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 15, 2025
Sydney Sixers defeated Adelaide Strikers by 3 wickets 🏏👏#cricket #BBL14 #SydneySixers #SteveSmith #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/erKIcQtUjW
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 15, 2025
Also READ: BBL|14 [Twitter reactions]: Tim David’s fiery finish guides Hobart Hurricanes to a thrilling last-over victory over Melbourne Renegades
For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.