The Hobart Hurricanes should begin their title defence with a big win at home against the Sydney Thunder.
Head to Head
There’s no value in this price, particularly if they bat first, but on paper the defending champions look far too strong for the Thunder.
The Hurricanes are almost at full strength, save for Beau Webster and Jake Weatherald who are on national duty. Their four big hitters Mitch Owen, Tim David, Ben McDermott and Mac Wright have all been named, along with veterans Matthew Wade and Chris Jordan.
The visitors will be without captain David Warner, leaving their batting looking particularly thin. Cam Bancroft is an established gun at this level, while Sam Konstas remains an inconsistent contributor.
The Thunder’s spinners remain strong, despite R Ashwin pulling out of the tournament. Their quicks look particularly poor, however.
The Canes have won the last four between these teams, six of the last eight and 14 of 22 overall. They’ve also won seven straight at home and nine of their last 10 overall.
Steer clear if Hobart bat first, as they have lost five of seven from that position as favourites. But if they chase, the home side is as close to a lock as you’ll ever see in Big Bash.
Best Bet
The big-hitting Owen dominates at this level, scoring 20+ in seven of his last eight BBL innings, including his match-winning ton in last year’s final. His form with the national team more recently wasn’t great, but a drop down in class against a thin bowling attack should see him go large.
Value Bet
Backing middle and lower order bats to top score in weak batting line-ups can be a profitable angle in T20 cricket, particularly if a team is chasing, as the pressure of a big total can trigger early top order wickets. This Thunder batting order is pretty poor, so the veteran Sams and Pakistani international Khan could impact here at huge prices.
Same Game Multi
Hurricanes Win / Owen 20+ Runs / Ellis 2+ Wickets ($4.10)
