Two of last season’s finalists and this season’s likely title contenders kick off their BBL|12 seasons under lights at Adelaide Oval on Wednesday night.
Best Bet
The Strikers have a terrific record at home and are well-placed to start their BBL campaign with a win as outsiders.
Jason Gillespie’s team have won their last five games at Adelaide Oval and eight of their last eleven. The underdog has also won the last six games at the venue.
They look a stronger squad this season with experienced quartet Chris Lynn, Colin de Grandhomme, Cameron Boyce and Adam Hose joining the squad. Travis Head and Alex Carey will also join post the Test series.
The Sixers are undoubtedly a good team, listed as favourites to win the tournament with TopSport, but at home and at the price the Strikers are the play.
Next Best
Matt Short is coming off a very consistent BBL|11 season, especially in the second half of the tournament, where he became one of the league’s top batsmen.
From his last eight innings last season, Short cleared 27 runs six times, including two fifties.
With his new opening partner Chris Lynn likely to bring the fireworks, expect Short to play more of an anchor role for the Strikers.
Value Bet
Australia’s favourite Afghan spinner is back for another eight games this BBL season and he gets one of his favourite teams first up.
Khan has tormented the men in pink in his eight games against them, taking 31 wickets at an average of just 7.75 and an economy rate of 6.69. He’s taken 3+ wickets in three of his last four games against the Sixers.
He’s a great bet to start the new season with a BOG performance.
Same Game Multi
Strikers H2H / M.Short 20+ runs / R.Khan 2+ wickets
