Sydney Thunder will face Perth Scorchers in Match 16 of the Big Bash League 2025–26 at the Sydney Showground Stadium on Tuesday, December 30.
With both teams struggling for consistency, this contest could play a crucial role in shaping the mid-season standings of the tournament.
Match Details
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Match: Sydney Thunder vs Perth Scorchers, Match 16, BBL 2025–26
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Date: Tuesday, December 30, 2025
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Venue: Sydney Showground Stadium, Sydney
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Time: 3:45 PM IST, 3:15 PM PST, 10:15 AM GMT
Team Overview
Sydney Thunder come into this match under pressure. Led by David Warner, the Thunder are currently placed seventh on the points table, having managed just one win from four matches. Despite possessing a balanced squad, their performances have lacked consistency, especially in the middle overs with both bat and ball. Warner’s leadership and experience will be vital as the team looks to end its losing streak and revive its campaign.
Perth Scorchers, one of the most successful franchises in BBL history, have also had an uneven start to the season. Under the leadership of Ashton Turner, the Scorchers sit fifth on the table with one win from three matches. Back-to-back defeats have slightly dented their momentum, but the squad still boasts match-winners who can turn the game around on any given day.
Key Players to Watch
For Sydney Thunder, all eyes will be on David Warner at the top of the order. His ability to provide a fast start is crucial, especially on a surface that may get slower as the match progresses. Shadab Khan has been the standout bowler for Thunder so far and remains a key figure in the middle overs.
Perth Scorchers will rely heavily on Cooper Connolly, who has been their most consistent batter in the tournament. Ashton Turner’s calm presence in the middle order and the all-round skills of Aaron Hardie add depth to the Scorchers’ lineup.
Head-to-Head Record
Sydney Thunder and Perth Scorchers have faced each other 20 times in T20 cricket. Thunder hold a slight edge with 11 wins, while the Scorchers have won nine matches. Their most recent encounter took place in January 2025, highlighting the competitive nature of this rivalry.
Pitch Report
The Sydney Showground Stadium pitch is traditionally known to assist spinners as the match progresses. Captains are expected to carefully assess the surface before deciding at the toss. Batters who apply themselves early and rotate strike effectively are likely to succeed, while spinners could play a decisive role in the middle overs. A total in the range of 155–170 could prove competitive.
Probable Playing XIs
Sydney Thunder:
Sam Konstas, David Warner (c), Cameron Bancroft, Matthew Gilkes, Sam Billings (w), Shadab Khan, Daniel Sams, Chris Green, Ryan Hadley, Tanveer Sangha, Reece Topley
Perth Scorchers:
Mitchell Marsh, Finn Allen (w), Cooper Connolly, Aaron Hardie, Ashton Turner (c), Laurie Evans, Nick Hobson, Ashton Agar, Joel Paris, Brody Couch, Mahli Beardman
Probable Match Scenarios
If Sydney Thunder bat first, they will aim for a strong powerplay to put pressure on the Scorchers’ bowling unit. Perth, on the other hand, may prefer to chase, given their depth in batting and ability to handle pressure situations. Spin is expected to dominate the middle overs for both sides, making strike rotation crucial.
Match Prediction
Given the conditions at Sydney Showground Stadium and recent trends, the team batting first is expected to have a slight advantage. Defending a total with quality spin options could be the key to winning this contest.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Information
The match will be broadcast live on JioStar Network channels. Live streaming will be available on the JioHotstar app and website for viewers in India. Fans in Pakistan can follow the action through regional sports platforms and digital streaming services, while international audiences can access the match via official BBL broadcast partners in their respective regions.
