Brisbane Heat has come out of nowhere and has put itself in what is essentially the 2020-21 Big Bash League semi-final match. They are currently on a streak of 4 consecutive victories, 2 of which were high-voltage playoff conflicts.
The route they’ve taken so far has been uphill, but it’s going to be steeper than ever when they’re going to take the Perth Scorchers tomorrow in the Challenger. Historically, the Scorchers have been one of this competition’s most formidable outfits, and this season was no exception. The qualifiers were dealt a Sydney Sixers loss and will be desperate to make amends tomorrow.
Weather
The game is probably going to be a cracking match if it happens. Sadly, there is a 60% chance of precipitation. It will have a temperature of about 23°C.
Pitch
It should have enough to hold the bowlers interested with a fresh pitch beckon at the Manuka Oval. As the game progresses, the spinners can extract some turn apart from some early swing with the new ball.
However, with the ball skidding on nicely under lights, the pitch shouldn’t change much from the first innings. At this place, 160 should be par, and upon winning the toss, either side is likely to chase.
Playing XIs:
Perth Scorchers
Ashton Turner (c), Josh Inglis (wk), Jason Roy, Liam Livingstone, Colin Munro, Mitchell Marsh, Fawad Ahmed, Jhye Richardson, Andrew Tye, Jason Behrendorff, Aaron Hardie
Brisbane Heat
Chris Lynn (c), Jimmy Peirson (wk), Sam Heazlett, Joe Denly, Marnus Labuschagne, Joe Burns, Lewis Gregory, Mark Steketee, Mitchell Swepson, Ben Laughlin, Xavier Bartlett
Perth Scorchers vs Brisbane Heat Dream 11:
Chris Lynn (c), Josh Inglis (wk), Jason Roy, Mitchell Marsh, Colin Munro, Liam Livingstone, Marnus Labuschagne, Andrew Tye, Xavier Bartlett, Mark Steketee, Mitchell Swepson
The Scorchers would fancy their chances, considering their depth and experience. However, it is not as simple as stated. The previous fixture between the two sides saw the Heat choke the Scorchers with Labuschagne and Swepson spin threat. Brisbane Heat has reached form at just the right time, and they can take the momentum straight through to the final.