In a thrilling Big Bash League (BBL) qualifier at Bellerive Oval on January 21, 2025, the Hobart Hurricanes clinched their first final appearance in seven years, overcoming the Sydney Sixers by 12 runs. Riley Meredith starred with a fierce opening spell, unsettling the Sixers’ top order and setting the stage for the Hurricanes’ victory. The match was a showcase of strategic depth and individual heroics, with key performances from Mitchell Owen and Tim David, who propelled the Hurricanes towards a defendable score of 173 for 7.
Despite a spirited fightback led by Kurtis Patterson and Jordan Silk for the Sixers, the Hurricanes’ disciplined bowling and sharp fielding secured their spot in the BBL final, keeping their dream of a maiden title alive. Our experts at CricketStadium explore all the details of the thrilling contest in the BBL.
Meredith’s Match-Defining Spell
The day belonged to speedster Riley Meredith, whose ferocious opening spell set the tone for the Hurricanes. Meredith, known for his pace, was particularly lethal, rattling the Sixers’ top order early in the innings. His first over dismissal of Josh Philippe for a duck with a blistering 150kph delivery was a clear statement of intent. Following up in his third over, Meredith took the crucial wicket of Sixers’ captain Moises Henriques, who edged to first slip where Ben McDermott executed a superb diving catch.
Meredith’s ability to sustain speeds over 150kph, peaking with a season-fastest 152kph bouncer to Jordan Silk, left the Sixers reeling at 5 for 3. This spell arguably shifted the momentum irrevocably in favour of the Hurricanes, setting up the foundation for their victory.
Sixers’ Middle-Order Resistance
Despite the disastrous start, the Sixers found heroes in Kurtis Patterson and Jordan Silk, who knitted together a vital 75-run partnership. Patterson, stepping in for the unavailable Steven Smith, showcased resilience and skill, unfazed by the early collapse. His contribution of 48 runs included a six that signalled the Sixers’ intent to fight back. Jordan Silk, on the other hand, anchored the innings with a well-crafted 57, but his dismissal marked the beginning of the end for the Sixers as the required run rate climbed steeply.
Hurricanes’ Explosive Start and Consistent Middle Overs
The Hurricanes’ innings were marked by an explosive start by opener Mitchell Owen, who hammered 36 runs off just 15 balls. Owen’s onslaught in the powerplay, which saw the Hurricanes race to 43 for no loss in three overs, laid a robust platform. Although Owen was dismissed post-powerplay, the middle overs were handled with caution and strategy by Caleb Jewell and McDermott, who built the innings steadily towards a competitive total of 173 for 7.
Jewell’s crucial 41 and McDermott’s strategic 42 played pivotal roles in stabilizing the Hurricanes’ innings after the loss of early wickets and setting a defendable target.
Key Fielding Moments and Late Innings Drama
Fielding efforts often turn into games, and this match was no exception. Jack Edwards’ spectacular catch to dismiss Matthew Wade was a turning point, shifting momentum back towards the Sixers momentarily. However, the Hurricanes’ Tim David provided the late-inning fireworks necessary to propel the score. His quickfire 25 off just 10 balls in the death overs ensured the Hurricanes set a challenging target.
Bowling and Defensive Strategies in the Death Overs
In the final overs, the Sixers needed 21 runs, a challenging but achievable target. The Hurricanes, however, held their nerve. Chris Jordan, known for his death-over skills, delivered a tight final over, denying the Sixers any chance of a last-minute comeback. The strategic field placements and consistent line and length bowled by the Hurricanes ensured they capped off their innings defensively as strong as they had begun.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, the Hurricanes not only advanced to the BBL final but also got the much-needed rest and home advantage for the title clash on January 27. The Sixers, on the other hand, have a quick turnaround for the Challenger final on Friday, where they face the winner of the elimination final between Sydney Thunder and Melbourne Stars.
This win not only takes the Hurricanes closer to their first BBL title but also marks a significant moment in their team history, demonstrating their growth and resilience in Australia’s premier T20 competition. As they prepare for the final, the Hurricanes will be buoyed by their performance but aware that one more Herculean effort is needed to lift the trophy.
