The second match of the New Year’s Day double-header is a blockbuster clash between the 4-1 Hurricanes and the 2-2 Scorchers in Hobart.
Head to Head
The Hurricanes are close to an automatic bet at home right now, even against quality opposition like the Scorchers.
The defending champions have won nine straight matches in Hobart. They’ve done it batting first and second, winning eight of nine when setting a total and nine straight when chasing.
The ’Canes haven’t quite been at their best through five games, but still sit second on the ladder with a 4-1 record. They also haven’t been required to post or chase a big total yet, with 181 the highest score they’ve recorded so far.
Perth have been competitive again this season, but their bowling looks far weaker than in previous years. Jason Behrendorff and AJ Tye are now at the Renegades, while Jhye Richardson has played just one match due to national duties. Cooper Connolly leads the Scorchers’ wicket tally with only five after four games.
These sides met on Boxing Day, with the visitors running out narrow winners in a rare defeat for the Scorchers in Perth.
Tim David was player of the match on that occasion, but he has since been ruled out of the tournament through injury. Nikhil Chaudhary is also in some doubt with a shoulder concern, while both Beau Webster and Josh Inglis will return to Sydney for Fifth Test preparations following their one-match cameos.
Even so, the Scorchers don’t look strong enough to breach the Hurricanes’ Hobart fortress, particularly with the ball. Take the home side to get the job done.
Best Bet
With David sidelined, Wade looks set to play the finisher’s role for Hobart for the remainder of the season. He’s hit at least one six in six of his last seven matches at Ninja Stadium.
Value Bet
As noted above, Connolly is currently the Scorchers’ leading wicket-taker in BBL 15 with just five wickets, as their revamped pace attack continues to struggle for impact. This market looks wide open for the remainder of the tournament, making the outsiders well worth a look.
Same Game Multi
Hurricanes H2H / McDermott & Connolly 10+ Runs / Ellis & Meredith 1+ Wicket
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