It’s Sydney Derby night at the SCG, with the Sixers priced as very short favourites against the last-placed Thunder.
Head to Head
This is about as short as prices get in the Big Bash, and in this case it’s fully justified.
Despite only winning two and a half more games this season, the Sixers are simply a far stronger squad on paper and receive a massive boost here with Mitch Starc playing his first BBL match in over a decade.
The men in magenta have dominated this rivalry since the competition began, winning 19 of 27 meetings, including nine of the past 12 at the SCG.
The only real concern is the bat flip. The Sixers have lost four of their past five matches when batting first, which slightly tempers enthusiasm at this price.
They still look well equipped to overcome that if required, but this is not a price to blindly steam into.
Best Bet
Weather is the main concern here, as reduced overs could cap Smith’s scoring potential. If conditions clear, however, then Smudge just has to be backed. Smith has scored centuries in three of his past five home Big Bash innings and should feast on this Thunder attack.
Value Bet
Starc is understandably a short-priced favourite following his Ashes return, but the SCG has historically been one of his less dominant venues. He’s also likely to open the bowling against the Thunder’s strong opening pair in Warner and Gilkes.
Davies has quietly put together a strong campaign with 10 wickets this season and should get plenty of opportunity against a fragile Thunder middle order. He’s been the Sixers’ leading wicket-taker in each of their past two home matches.
Same Game Multi
Sixers H2H / Smith 30+ Runs / Starc & Davies 1+ Wickets
