The Sydney Thunder vs Sydney Sixers derby at the SCG delivered one of the most dramatic encounters of this Big Bash League season, with Steven Smith producing a breathtaking 41-ball century to outshine David Warner’s unbeaten 110 as the Sixers pulled off a stunning run chase to keep their finals ambitions alive.
Steven Smith’s Masterclass Lights Up the SCG
Steven Smith was at his destructive best, scoring the fastest century of his BBL career. With none of the niceties, Smith batted with authority and intent. He smashed a record 32 runs in one over against Ryan Hadley-the most ever runs scored in a single over in BBL history.
Smith reached his half-century in just 23 balls and went on to take apart the Thunder bowling attack with a mix of innovation, power, and precision as his innings turned out to be decisive in Sydney Thunder vs Sydney Sixers.
Smith and Babar Azam’s Explosive Opening Stand
Smith and Babar Azam started well with a dominant 141-run partnership in just 12 overs. Although there looked to be some sparring over running between the wickets in the power play burst, it was in Smith’s favour to take the initiative in the beginning and reap the rewards immediately.
Babar got started thanks to smooth stroke-play, but his innings came to a quick end shortly after Smith’s assault, when he got bowled at the very start of the next over.
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Late Wobble, Calm Finish for Sixers
Despite losing five wickets for 28 runs in a dramatic collapse, with the crucial one being the fall of Smith, the Sixers remained composed. Lachlan Shaw and Jack Edwards saw the team through, scoring with 16 balls to spare, securing a thrilling derby result.
This means that the Sixers now have to win against Brisbane Heat at the Gabba to clinch the second position and enter the Qualifier. But failing this, they would be out of the running for the finals.
David Warner’s Lone Battle for Sydney Thunder
David Warner had earlier produced an intimidating display for Sydney Thunder, remaining unbeaten on 110 from 64 balls. This was his second century of the current season, but, like his first against the Hobart Hurricanes, it proved fruitful in a losing effort.
Warner was dominant during the powerplay, reaching his fifty in just 25 deliveries, regaining the number one position on the list of run-scorers in the tournament. However, it was unfortunate for the Thunder as none of the other batsmen could support him.
Key Moments in Thunder’s Innings
Mitchell Starc also made his return to BBL after more than 11 years, giving away 15 runs in his first over.
However, this momentum could not be maintained for long and they continued losing wickets.
This power play witnessed a sudden acceleration in the form of Warner and Nic Maddinson scoring 84 off 47 deliveries.
Sam Curram was impressive when it mattered most, taking three wickets in the last over.
Although it was a brilliant innings from Warner, it was not enough for a winning total.
