ST vs SS (8th Match) – Highlights
In this article, we will discuss the thrilling 8th match of the Big Bash League 2024, where SS faced off against ST at the Sydney Cricket Ground on December 21, 2024. It was a high-octane encounter that went down to the wire, showcasing the fierce rivalry between the two Sydney-based teams. The Sixers emerged victorious by 5 wickets, chasing down the target of 164 on the last ball of the match. The nail-biting finish, coupled with standout performances from both sides, made it a game to remember for fans and players alike.
Batting first, the Thunder posted a competitive total of 163/5, thanks to a resilient knock from Cameron Bancroft and a spirited contribution from Oliver Davies. However, the Sydney Sixers displayed nerves of steel to chase the target on the very last ball of their innings, securing a thrilling 5-wicket victory.
The ST began their innings on a shaky note, losing Sam Konstas for a duck in the first over as Akeal Hosein struck early. David Warner, the Thunder captain, tried to counterattack with a brisk 17 off 10 balls, but his stay was cut short by Sean Abbott’s clever bowling. With two quick wickets down, Cameron Bancroft anchored the innings superbly. His unbeaten 70 off 52 deliveries was a masterclass in pacing an innings, as he found gaps regularly and struck five boundaries and three sixes.
Oliver Davies provided valuable support, scoring 47 off 34 balls with one boundary and three maximums, as the pair built a crucial partnership of 88 runs for the third wicket. However, the Sixers’ bowlers struck back in the death overs, with Ben Dwarshuis picking up two quick wickets to restrict the Thunder’s scoring. Sherfane Rutherford (8) and Daniel Sams (2) departed in successive deliveries, leaving the Thunder at 131/5. Sam Billings added a late flourish with an unbeaten 15 off 10 balls, pushing the total to 163/5.
Chasing 164, the SS started positively with Josh Philippe leading the charge. His 35 off 27 balls, including two boundaries and two sixes, set the tone for the chase. James Vince, though, struggled to find rhythm and was run out for 13. Jack Edwards then took charge with an explosive 28 off 18 deliveries, striking at a rapid rate of 155.55. The Sixers looked in control, but the Thunder struck back, with Vince and Edwards departing in quick succession.
Captain Moises Henriques steadied the innings but couldn’t accelerate, falling for a laborious 17 off 22 balls. It was Jordan Silk who played the decisive knock, scoring an unbeaten 36 off 25 balls, including four boundaries and a six. His calm presence ensured the Sixers stayed in the hunt. Lachlan Shaw’s 8 off 7 balls was brief but valuable, as he rotated the strike effectively.
The match turned dramatically in the final overs when Ben Dwarshuis smashed 20 off just 8 balls, including two sixes, to take the Sixers over the line. With one ball remaining and needing two runs, Silk and Dwarshuis held their nerve to seal a memorable victory for the Sixers, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
Sydney Thunder vs Sydney Sixers Scoreboard
Sydney Thunder – 163/5
Sydney Sixers– 164/5 (20/20)
Result – Sixers won by 5 wickets (with 0 balls remaining)
Player of the Match – Ben Dwarshuis
ST vs SS Playing Eleven
Sydney Thunder
David Warner(C), Sam Konstas, Cameron Bancroft, Oliver Davies, Sherfane Rutherford, Daniel Sams, Sam Billings(WK), Chris Green, Nathan McAndrew, Lockie Ferguson, Tanveer Sangha
Sydney Sixers
Josh Philippe(WK), James Vince, Jack Edwards, Moises Henriques(C), Jordan Silk, Lachlan Shaw, Ben Dwarshuis, Joel Davies, Sean Abbott, Akeal Hosein, Todd Murphy
Disclaimer: These match highlights reflect the author’s insights and analysis. Readers are encouraged to consider the points discussed and form their own conclusions.