No side has ever won the Big Bash League twice. Surprising, when you consider the Perth Scorchers have played in every final of the competition thus far. However, both sides competing for the title in 2015 have lifted the trophy. The Scorchers last year and the Sixers in 2011/12. Thus the winner of this matchup will become the most successful franchise in the league’s short history.
Manuka Oval plays host to the two teams. A ground notorious for big scores. Perfect for the big occasion. Last year the Perth Scorchers made 191 in their 20 overs and defended it with ease. The conditions at Manuka should suit a similar score, unless the strong bowling attacks of both sides have anything to say about it.
The Last Time These Two Met
The teams have clashed just once in BBL4. On that occasion, the Scorchers came out winners by 36 runs in a low scoring affair at the SCG. Batting first, the Perth outfit made just 135, of which young Marcus Harris top scored with 36. In response the Sydney side mustered just 99; stifled by an accomplished group effort by the Scorchers fielding unit. The Scorchers have defended totals (both low and high) all tournament long, and arguably have the most complete bowling unit in the competition.
The Teams
Perth Scorchers (likely): Adam Voges , Shaun Marsh, Michael Klinger, Michael Carberry, Whiteman, Ashton Turner, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Yasir Arafat, Andrew Tye, Jason Behrendorff, Brad Hogg.
Sydney Sixers (likely): Riki Wessels, Michael Lumb, Nic Maddinson, Moises Henriques, Jordan Silk, Ryan Carters, Sean Abbott, Steven O’Keefe, Brett Lee, Nathan Lyon, Dough Bollinger
The Key Players
Nathan Coulter-Nile – The crucial wicket of the entire Big Bash League may well have been Coulter-Nile’s dismissal of Melbourne Stars kingpin Kevin Pieterson. That’s a remarkable feat for the lanky all-rounder given the semi-final against the Stars was his only appearance in this year’s Big Bas League. In that game Coulter-Nile got runs and wickets, and the Australian rep will be expected to do the same in tomorrows final.
Jordan Silk – Silk has been quite the find this season. Known for his fielding and conservative batting approach, Silk has exploded in the finishers role, helping his side to important wins along the way. 269 runs at 67.25 have seen him rewarded with a three year extension with the Sixers. Silk’s at $21 to take out the man of the match award.
The Odds*
Perth Scorchers – $1.72
Sydney Sixers – $2.15
*Courtesy of BetEasy.
The Prediction
The Scorchers are incredible bowling and fielding side, but we’re not backing their batsman to do enough to get them over the line. We like the Sixers. Led by Lumb, Wessels and Maddinson to prevail.
