The new BBL season kicks off with a clash between historically the competition’s two best sides, the Scorchers and Sixers.
Head to Head
One of the best trends in the Big Bash is to never back against the Scorchers at home.
They have won 20 of their last 25 games at Optus, with two of those losses coming in their final three home games last season during the worst run the five-time champs have endured in years.
Both teams’ bowling has taken a hit ahead of the new season, with the Scorchers missing Jhye Richardson through national duty, Jason Behrendorff who has moved to the Renegades, and Lance Morris through injury. The visitors will be without the hamstrung Sean Abbott.
Perth will be bolstered by the full-time inclusion of Mitch Marsh, while the Sixers have signed Pakistani champion Babar Azam.
These teams have only played only twice over the last two seasons. The Sixers have won three of the last four overall, but the head-to-head record still favours the Scorchers 17-12.
Especially early in the season with little exposed form, stick with history and the home team.
Best Bet
Connolly’s record at home is superb, clearing 25 runs in seven of his last eight knocks at Optus. He starts this BBL season in great touch, smacking the English Lions for 88 in his most recent top-level appearance.
Value Bet
The Bison remains an elite player at this level, and his all-round ability makes him a very attractive Player of the Match option. His power hitting is unparalleled and with the Scorchers missing some frontline bowling options, he is arguably his side’s most likely wicket-taker.
Same Game Multi
Scorchers Win / Connolly 20+ Runs / Marsh & Dwarshuis 1+ Wicket
