Sydney Sixers have finally found their rhythm in the BBL, overpowering Sydney Thunder by 47 runs in the Sydney Smash, thanks to Josh Philippe’s 96 and Jack Edwards’ brilliant five-wicket haul.
Chasing 199, Thunder never gained momentum after a blistering start from Sam Billings (51) and Shadab Khan (41). Edwards ripped through the middle order with 5 for 26, while early strikes from Sixers’ bowlers left Thunder reeling at 17 for 3, effectively sealing the contest.
Babar Azam finally made his mark in the BBL with a 42-ball 58, anchoring a massive 140-run partnership with Philippe. Philippe dominated the latter half of the innings, punishing spinners Shadab Khan and Tanveer Sangha, but agonizingly fell just short of a maiden BBL century in the final over.
The Sixers’ total of 198 for 5 proved too strong for the Thunder on a rare fast, true surface at Engie Stadium. Thunder’s hopes were further dashed as returning David Warner and Sam Konstas made just 2 apiece, and the side remains winless after two matches this season.
Philippe’s strokeplay, combined with Babar’s composed anchoring, alongside Edwards’ devastating spell with the ball, showcased a complete performance that Sixers will hope to build on as the season progresses.
