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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.
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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:
The Hurricanes won the powerplays in both innings and the power surge in both innings. In the end, that proved to be the difference. Minor premiers, they deserve to host the grand final. 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. Lucky, we have another chance.
See you Friday at the SCG, Sixers fans 🩷#LIKEASIXER #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/Q5OwbdP2SP
— Sydney Sixers (@SixersBBL) January 21, 2025
That's it. Hobart Hurricanes win their 1st home final in the BBL and go straight through to the final. Congratulations. #BBL14
— Peter Phoebe (@EatDrinkCricket) January 21, 2025
THE @HurricanesBBL are through to the final at home.
Well played 👏 #BBL14— Damien Fleming (@bowlologist) January 21, 2025
Final baby wooooooooo fucken hoo cane train🚂#BBL14 pic.twitter.com/1NBs9YH4i7
— BB (@blu_boys) January 21, 2025
Massive for the Canes. Got the platform with the bat then stunned with the ball early to ensure momentum stayed their way. Will host the final, Sixers will rue not being able to get closer #BBL14
— Davis "LIONS" Harrigan (Digi) 🦁 (@DeadlineDavis) January 21, 2025
Hobart deserves 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 bit iffy heading into the season with the list but definitely proved me wrong 😅
Go Canes 💪#BBL14
— Damion Maher (@Damion23) January 21, 2025
LET'S GOOOOOO! GRAND FINAL HERE WE COME! 🚂🌪
It's our time! Jan 27th here at Ninja Stadium. Tickets on sale tomorrow. 10am Members, 12pm General Public. pic.twitter.com/hhwaMo6FN8
— Hobart Hurricanes (@HurricanesBBL) January 21, 2025
Hobart Hurricanes advanced to the finals after 7 years 🤩#Cricket #BBL14 #hobarthurricanes pic.twitter.com/KnVwOWUMut
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 21, 2025
Hobart Hurricanes qualify for their third BBL final! 🙌
Sydney Sixers gave a very good fight after being 5/3 but not enough in the end.
— Omkar Mankame (@Oam_16) January 21, 2025
Omg Hobart Hurricanes is in the finalsssssssssaasas https://t.co/CYCkQjWi5e
— Archer (@poserarcher) January 21, 2025