One of the better matches of the season looks like materialising in Sydney this evening when top four sides the Sixers and Strikers attempt to strengthen their finals credentials.
The Sixers have been doing enough to get over the line more often than not, but I can’t help but think they’ve been saved by misfiring opponents, more than their own actual ability. The face one of, if not the best team in the league here and will need to produce a career-best performance.
The Strikers have been excellent and are unlucky not to boast an unbeaten record ahead of this match. Their first loss of the season came at the hands of the Sydney Thunder on New Year’s Eve, and they’ll be eager to respond here. I think they’ll prove too good.
A late-night fixture for the east coast fans will take place between the Perth Scorchers and Hobart Hurricanes in the nation’s west. Neither side has been particularly convincing this season and a win here would do plenty for both confidence and their chances of finishing in the top four.
It was a lovely return to winning form for the Scorchers on New Year’s Day, but it was against an extremely disappointing Brisbane Heat outfit and I’m not sure that it was a real indication as to how well they’re going.
The Hurricanes have been going one-for-one all season and do enter this off the back of a win over the Heat as well. The key to winning remains with D’Arcy Short, and if the opener doesn’t get off to a start they tend to find it extremely difficult.
There’s $1.90 a side available at publish, and I am happy to be with the Scorchers at home.