Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder meet in Match 37 of BBL 2025 at the Sydney Cricket Ground with playoff implications on one side and pride on the other. The Sixers enter with momentum after a strong mid-season comeback, while the Thunder look to build consistency after ending a long losing streak.
Match Details
The match is Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder, 37th match of the Men’s Big Bash League 2025 season. It will be played on Friday, January 16, 2026, at the Sydney Cricket Ground in Sydney. The start time is 1:45 p.m. IST, 1:15 p.m. PST (Pakistan Standard Time), and 8:15 a.m. GMT.
Team Overview: Sydney Sixers
Sydney Sixers approach this contest with renewed confidence after winning three of their last matches. Their previous fixture against Hobart Hurricanes ended without a result due to rain, but before that they produced a disciplined all-round performance against Melbourne Stars. The Sixers’ bowling attack set the tone in that game, dismissing the Stars for 128, with Ben Dwarshuis leading the charge through a four-wicket haul supported well by Jack Edwards. Their chase showed composure and depth, finishing the target with overs to spare.
The Sixers currently sit fifth on the points table with four wins and nine points, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Their batting lineup blends experience and adaptability, while the bowling unit has shown the ability to control both powerplay and death overs, which remains crucial at the SCG.
Team Overview: Sydney Thunder
Sydney Thunder finally snapped a four-match losing run with a controlled four-wicket win over Melbourne Renegades. Their bowlers executed plans effectively, restricting the Renegades to 170 for 8, with David Willey, Wes Agar, and Ryan Hadley sharing wickets. A revised DLS target of 140 in 16 overs tested their batting, but Nic Maddinson and Chris Green played decisive roles to get the side over the line.
Despite that win, Thunder remain at the bottom of the table and require back-to-back strong performances to restore confidence. Their season has depended heavily on top-order contributions, particularly from their captain, while inconsistency in the middle overs has cost them matches.
Head-to-Head Record
Sydney Sixers hold a clear historical edge over Sydney Thunder in T20 cricket. Across 29 meetings, the Sixers have won 19 matches, while Thunder have secured 8 victories. One match ended in a tie and two produced no results. Recent encounters also favour the Sixers, who have won three of the last five clashes between the two sides.
Pitch and Weather Report
The Sydney Cricket Ground traditionally offers a balanced surface. New-ball seamers can find movement early, especially under cloud cover, while batting becomes easier once players settle. The outfield remains quick, and spinners often come into play during the middle overs. The average first-innings score at the venue stands close to 160, indicating a competitive but achievable total.
Weather conditions suggest cloudy skies with around a 30 percent chance of rain during the first half of the match. Temperatures are expected between 15°C and 20°C with moderate humidity, which could influence captains to bowl first.
Probable Playing XIs
Sydney Sixers: Josh Philippe (wicketkeeper), Babar Azam, Lachlan Shaw, Moises Henriques (captain), Steve Smith, Jack Edwards, Ben Dwarshuis, Ben Manenti, Joel Davies, Sam Curran, Sean Abbott.
Sydney Thunder: Matthew Gilkes, David Warner (captain), Cameron Bancroft, Sam Billings (wicketkeeper), Chris Green, Nic Maddinson, Daniel Sams, David Willey, Wes Agar, Ryan Hadley, Tanveer Sangha.
Key Players to Watch
Joel Davies has emerged as a valuable all-round option for the Sixers, contributing brisk runs and timely wickets throughout the season. His ability to influence games in short spells adds flexibility to the Sixers’ balance. For Thunder, David Warner remains the standout performer, leading from the front with consistent high-impact scores at the top of the order.
Toss and Match Scenarios
Recent matches at the SCG show a clear preference for bowling first, with captains backing their sides to chase under lights. If Sixers bowl first, Thunder are likely to target a total around 160 to 170. If Thunder bowl first, the Sixers’ batting depth could push the score closer to 180.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Information
In India, the match will be televised on the Star Sports Network and streamed live on the JioHotstar app and website. Viewers in Pakistan can watch the game through official digital platforms carrying Big Bash League coverage. In the United Kingdom, live streaming will be available through official BBL broadcast partners and sports streaming services. Australian viewers can follow the match live on domestic sports channels and official league streaming apps. Global audiences can access the match via the Big Bash League’s authorized international broadcasters and digital platforms.
Match Prediction
Sydney Sixers enter this contest as marginal favourites due to their recent form, stronger head-to-head record, and a more settled combination across departments. Sydney Thunder possess match-winners capable of turning the game, particularly at the top of the order, but consistency remains a concern. If conditions remain dry and the Sixers execute their bowling plans effectively, they are likely to maintain control over key phases and secure a crucial win.
