Sydney Thunder reach their 2nd final in Big Bash League
What's the story
Sydney Thunder have booked their berth in the Big Bash League (BBL) final, following a nail-biting four-wicket win over Sydney Sixers. The win paves the way for David Warner to guide his team to their first BBL title in nine years. Notably, it has been a remarkable turnaround for the Thunder, who finished last in the previous season. The Challenger final derby was defined by a few key performances and decisions that tipped the scales in favor of Warner's side.
Key performance
Billings's experience proves crucial in Thunder's victory
Sam Billings played a crucial role in Thunder's victory, guiding his team toward the target despite frequent wicket losses. While needing 18 runs from the last 13 balls, Billings eased the pressure with a powerful leg-side six off Hayden Kerr. Additionally, his experience and composure under pressure were the ultimate difference between the two sides. He scored an unbeaten 42 runs from 29 balls, hitting two fours and two sixes.
Bowling prowess
Thunder's spinners shine in Challenger final
The Thunder's fielding was pivotal in their victory, with the Sixers only managing 151, thanks to a sixth-wicket partnership of 56 off 34 balls between Jordan Silk and Ben Dwarshuis. Meanwhile, Tom Andrews stood out among the Thunder spinners, claiming two wickets in three balls. However, the collective efforts of Andrews, Tanveer Sangha, and Chris Green limited the Sixers to just 66 runs in 10 overs on a spin-friendly pitch.
Game plan
Thunder's opening strategy and early momentum
The Thunder have experimented with various opening combinations this season due to injuries and player call-ups. However, for the Challenger final, they chose Jason Sangha to open alongside Warner. Notably, Sangha made an immediate impact in just his second game of the season, scoring 14 runs off the first over. Additionally, Warner also started aggressively, hitting his first ball off Kerr for six before being caught at mid-on in the third over.
Upcoming final
Sixers's spin attack and Thunder's final showdown
In response to the Thunder's batting, young English leg-spinner Jafer Chohan put on an impressive display. However, the Sixers lacked the depth of spinners to match the Thunder's attack. Meanwhile, with this the Thunder have set up a final showdown against the Hobart Hurricanes on Monday, promising an exciting conclusion to this year's BBL competition.
Final
A look at the final showdown of the 2024-25 BBL
With their win against the Sixers, the Thunder have made it to their second BBL final, having won their first title in 2015-16. Meanwhile, the Hobart Hurricanes will feature in their third final, and will eagerly want to break their streak of two finals losses (2013-14 and 2017-18). Additionally, the Hurricanes lead the Sixers 13-8 in terms of head-to-head meetings, according to ESPNcricinfo.