It’s a key match-up for both the Stars and Sixers tonight at the MCG as both teams chase a BBL 15 finals berth.
Head to Head
The Sixers have long been a great bet as underdogs and that looks the case again here, especially if they chase.
The Sydney side have won 25 of their last 33 matches as outsiders, including their last three matches as underdogs at the MCG. Underdogs have also won six of the last eight matches at the ‘G.
The Sixers have started to get rolling over their last two matches after a 1-3 start to the season. This has coincided with the return of all-time Big Bash wicket-taker Sean Abbott, who has taken five wickets at under six runs per over across his last two games.
The 4-2 Stars’ results have mirrored the bat flip all season. When they’ve won the toss and chased, they’ve won all four matches. When they’ve lost the toss and been required to set a total, they’ve lost. These teams met earlier in the season in Sydney in a comfortable win for the Stars, but they were batting from the advantaged position chasing. The chasing team has won 18 of 26 matches this season.
The Sixers hold a 15-9 head-to-head record over the Stars, although the last four meetings have been split 2-2.
The visitors look good value at the price here, particularly if they can keep the Stars out of their preferred chasing role at the toss.
Best Bet
As mentioned, Abbott has returned to the BBL from injury in top form, taking five wickets across his last two games. He also enjoys bowling at the MCG, where he’s taken 2+ wickets in six of his last seven matches.
Value Bet
Maxwell has a terrific record both against the Sixers and at the MCG. He averages almost 50 against this opponent, with seven half-centuries from 20 innings. He’s also scored 50+ in three of his last four matches against the Sixers at the ‘G.
Same Game Multi
Sixers H2H (if chasing) / Abbott 2+ Wickets / Siddle & Dwarshuis 1+ Wickets
