Hobart Hurricanes surpassed Sydney Sixers in a thrilling 12-race qualifier at Bellerive Oval, Hobart, securing his place in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 end.
Hobart Hurricanes secure a place in the 2024-25 Big Bash League final
Batting first, the Hurricanes set a commanding target of 173/7, with contributions from michel owen and Ben McDermott. Owen’s impressive 36 off 15 balls, with three sixes and three fours, laid the foundation for a solid total. Caleb Joyacomposed of 40 entries, while Tim DavidLate fireworks ensured the Hurricanes crossed the 170 mark. Despite tight bowling from Jafer Chohan and Ben DwarshuisSharing four wickets, the Sixers were unable to contain the Hurricanes’ aggressive batting line-up, resulting in a formidable challenge for the chase.
Hobart’s impeccable home record this season remains unbreakable, earning them a direct ticket to the grand final on January 27. Despite the setback, the Sixers are still in the hunt for the title and will face the winner of the elimination game between the Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thunder at Challenger on Friday. With the Hurricanes enjoying some extra rest and the advantage of playing in front of their home crowd, they will aim to cap their impeccable home campaign by lifting the trophy.
Riley Meredith and Cameron Gannon shine as Sydney Sixers fall short
Riley Meredith and Cameron Gannon put in winning performances with the ball to defend the Hurricanes total. Meredith, named Player of the Match, picked up two crucial wickets, including the dangerous Moisés Henriques and kept the pressure on with his pace and precision. Gannon was equally impressive, dismantling the Sixers’ top order with figures of 2/10 in his three overs. The Sixers found themselves reeling at 5/3 in three overs, courtesy of a lethal new-ball spell. Despite the valiant efforts of Kurtis Patterson (48) and Jordanian silk (57), the Hurricanes’ disciplined bowling attack, supported by a tight field, ensured that the Sixers could only muster 161/5, falling 12 runs short of their target.
Mitchell Owen’s all-round brilliance steals the show
Owen’s impact went beyond his explosive hitting; Their comprehensive efforts contributed significantly to the Hurricanes’ success. His 36 off just 15 balls came at a strike rate of 240, propelling the Hurricanes to a competitive total. Later, his sharp catch to dismiss Patterson at a critical juncture highlighted his value on the field. Owen’s performance under pressure was instrumental in the Hurricanes’ victory. His ability to deliver in crucial moments epitomizes the depth and balance of the Hurricanes team heading into the finals.
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Sydney Sixers’ resilient middle order falls short
The Sixers’ middle order showed resilience despite losing early wickets. Jordanian silk led the comeback with a brave 57 off 44 balls, supported by Lachlan ShawHe has 33 undefeated. The duo posted a 64-run stand for the fifth wicket, reviving the chase after a disastrous start. Silk’s striking game and Shaw’s calm got the Sixers back into the game, keeping the required running speed manageable. However, a lack of acceleration in the final overs, coupled with tight bowling from the Hurricanes, left the Sixers with too much to do. The Hurricanes’ strategic use of bowlers in the death overs proved decisive in sealing their victory.
This is how Twitter reacted:
The Hurricanes won the power plays in both innings and the power play in both innings. In the end, that turned out to be the difference. Minor premiers, they deserve to host the grand final. It leaves the Heat and Thunder as the only two teams yet to host a grand final.#BBL14
– Lachlan Jeffery (@LachlanJeffery) January 21, 2025
Welcome to the final, @HurricanesBBL 💜#BBL14 pic.twitter.com/hikR3ZntpR
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 21, 2025
Not our night in Hobart. Luckily, we have another chance.
See you Friday at the SCG, Sixers fans 🩷#COMOASIXER #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/Q5OwbdP2SP
— Sydney Sixers (@SixersBBL) January 21, 2025
That’s all. The Hobart Hurricanes win their first home final in the BBL and go straight to the final. Congratulations. #BBL14
—Peter Phoebe (@EatDrinkCricket) January 21, 2025
HE @HurricanesBBL They are qualified for the final at home.
Well played 👏 #BBL14– Damien Fleming (@bowlologist) January 21, 2025
Final baby, woooooooo, fucking cane train hoo🚂#BBL14 pic.twitter.com/1NBs9YH4i7
-BB (@blu_boys) January 21, 2025
Massive for the Canes. He got the platform with the bat and then stunned with the ball early to ensure the momentum stayed his way. They will host the final, the Sixers will regret not being able to get close #BBL14
— Davis “LIONS” Harrigan (Digi) 🦁 (@DeadlineDavis) January 21, 2025
Hobart deserve to qualify for the finals with the way they played this season. Deservedly the best team in the competition. #BBL14
– Cricket Tamizhan (@CricketTamizhan) January 21, 2025
Well done, Hurricanes. I was a little hesitant coming into the season with the roster, but I definitely proved myself wrong 😅
Go canes 💪#BBL14
– Damion Maher (@Damion23) January 21, 2025
LET’S GO NOW! GRAND FINAL HERE WE GO! 🚂🌪
It’s our time! January 27 here at Ninja Stadium. Tickets on sale tomorrow. 10 a.m. Members, 12 p.m. General public. pic.twitter.com/hhwaMo6FN8
– Hobart Hurricanes (@HuracanesBBL) January 21, 2025
Hobart Hurricanes advanced to the final after 7 years 🤩#Cricket #BBL14 #hobarthuracanes pic.twitter.com/KnVwOWUMut
– CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 21, 2025
Hobart Hurricanes qualify for their third BBL final! 🙌
Sydney Sixers put up a very good fight after finishing 5/3 but in the end it was not enough.
—Omkar Mankame (@Oam_16) January 21, 2025
OMG Hobart Hurricanes are in the finalssssssssss https://t.co/CYCkQjWi5e
– Archer (@poserarcher) January 21, 2025