• Hobart Hurricanes stormed into the BBL|14 final with a thrilling 12-run win over the Sydney Sixers in the Qualifier.

  • Riley Meredith was named Player of the Match for his excellent bowling performance.

Twitter reactions: Hobart Hurricanes march into the final after defeating Sydney Sixers in BBL|14 Qualifier
BBL 2024-25 (Image Source: X)

Hobart Hurricanes outplayed Sydney Sixers in a nail-biting qualifier by 12-run at Bellerive Oval, Hobart, securing their place in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 final.

Hobart Hurricanes secure spot in the Big Bash League 2024-25 final

Batting first, the Hurricanes set an imposing target of 173/7, with contributions from Mitchell Owen and Ben McDermott. Owen’s blistering 36 off 15 balls, featuring three sixes and three fours, laid the foundation for a solid total. Caleb Jewell’s composed 40 anchored the innings, while Tim David’s late fireworks ensured the Hurricanes crossed the 170-mark. Despite tight bowling from Jafer Chohan and Ben Dwarshuis, who shared four wickets, the Sixers couldn’t contain the Hurricanes’ aggressive batting lineup, resulting in a formidable challenge for the chase.

Hobart’s impeccable home record this season remains unbroken, 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 Knockout game between the Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thunder in the Challenger on Friday. With the Hurricanes enjoying additional rest and the advantage of playing in front of their home crowd, they will aim to cap off their flawless home campaign by lifting the trophy.

Riley Meredith and Cameron Gannon shine as Sydney Sixers fall short

Riley Meredith and Cameron Gannon delivered match-winning performances with the ball to defend the Hurricanes’ total. Meredith, named Player of the Match, picked up two crucial wickets, including the dangerous Moises Henriques and maintained pressure with his pace and accuracy. 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 within three overs, courtesy of a lethal new-ball spell. Despite valiant efforts from Kurtis Patterson (48) and Jordan Silk (57), the Hurricanes’ disciplined bowling attack, supported by tight fielding, ensured 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 batting; his all-around 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 in 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’ squad heading into the finals.

Also WATCH: Jack Edwards takes a blinder to dismiss Matthew Wade in BBL|14 Qualifier

Sydney Sixers’ resilient middle order falls short

The Sixers’ middle order showcased resilience despite losing early wickets. Jordan Silk led the fightback with a gritty 57 off 44 balls, supported by Lachlan Shaw‘s unbeaten 33. The duo stitched a 64-run stand for the fifth wicket, reviving the chase after a disastrous start. Silk’s strokeplay and Shaw’s calmness brought the Sixers back into the game, keeping the required run rate manageable. However, the 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 triumph.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

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