3 minute read
A look at how the BBL's finals will shape up, with five matches to be played before the eventual winner is declared.
HOW THE BBL FINALS SHAPE UP:
FRIDAY: Brisbane Heat v Adelaide Strikers at the Gabba (Eliminator)
Brisbane enter off the back of a crucial win to reach their first finals in four years, while results allowed Adelaide to sneak into the fourth-and-fifth-place playoff. The Strikers have beaten the Heat twice this season, including a two-run thriller at the Gabba. Chris Lynn and Alex Carey shape as keys for their teams at the top of the order while Marnus Labuschagne and Travis Head have both been influential since returning from Test duties.
SATURDAY: Sydney Sixers v Perth Scorchers at Manuka Oval, Canberra (Qualifier)
A chance for both teams to go straight into the grand final. The Sixers have been the best team for the majority of the competition but their bowling suddenly become a concern with big runs against them late in the tournament. The Scorchers meanwhile caught fire with a run of home games in Perth but squandered top spot on Tuesday with a loss to Brisbane. The teams have split big wins over each other this season.
SUNDAY: Sydney Thunder v winner of Eliminator at Manuka Oval, Canberra (Knockout)
The Thunder face the winner of Brisbane and Adelaide in sudden-death. The Thunder should enter as favourites after being one of the most consistent teams of the tournament. They have lost four of their last six, but are yet to be hammered by any side. Alex Hales is the form player of the competition, blasting a record 30 sixes this summer and claiming the golden cap for the most runs (535).
THURSDAY FEB 4: Loser Qualifier v Winner Knockout at TBA (Challenger)
Effectively the preliminary final, with the winner to qualify for the decider. The loser's season will be over.
SATURDAY FEB 6: Winner Qualifier v Winner Challenger at TBA (Final)
The grand final, where the winner of the 10th edition of the Big Bash League will be decided. This match could be held in Sydney if the Sixers win the right to host it.
