Perth Scorchers v Hobart Hurricanes BBL Tips, Predictions and Preview

Two teams with nothing much to separate them – even on net run rate – meet in a Big Bash League four-pointer when Perth Scorchers host Hobart Hurricanes at Optus Stadium on Sunday.

Both teams have four points from five matches (W2, L3). Even their net run rates are closely tied, separated only on the third decimal point. However, the two sides are on opposite routes of form – the Scorchers won their last match, while the Hurricanes have lost their last two.

Perth Scorchers

This Scorchers team is widely regarded to be one of the weakest ever to don these colours. True or not, their performances haven’t been living up to expectations. The hope for home fans is that the likes of Cameron Bancroft (122 runs, SR 125.77) and Mitchell Marsh (145 runs, SR 142.15) are on their way up with regards to their form.

Chris Jordan (eight wickets) remains their best bet with the ball, although Fawad Ahmed (seven wickets, ER 7.10) is beginning to show his true worth. Still, the poor season of Jhye Richardson and Ashton Agar continues to pull them down.

Hobart Hurricanes

The Hurricanes were trumped by Brisbane Heat in their most recent match, showing how worrisome their dependence on D’Arcy Short (145 runs, SR 119.83) has been. With just Ben McDermott (111 runs, SR 102.77) among the rest scoring over 100 runs, the Hurricanes have nowhere to hide.

The injury to James Faulkner is a worry, but Riley Meredith (nine wickets) continues to be amongst the wickets. With nothing significant coming from their batting overseas recruit David Miller, the Hurricanes are on a sticky wicket.

Match Up

Both teams are in desperate need of a positive result, considering the importance of this fixture. The Scorchers will feel that they have turned the corner with their win against Brisbane Heat in the most recent fixture. The Hurricanes, on the other hand, continue to be a hit or flop depending on Short’s performances. The hosts might edge this one.

History & Statistics

• The Scorchers have won six of the last nine H2Hs, although losing the last three.
• The Scorchers have won six of the eight H2Hs when they won the toss.
• The Hurricanes have won both the H2Hs played at this venue.
• The Hurricanes have won each of the three H2Hs when they won the toss.

Key Players

Cameron Bancroft had a poor start to the BBL season, but has come to form with a 50 in his latest match. If he can continue that, the Scorchers will be well-served.

With just 71 runs in the season and a SR of 126.78, David Miller has been not been in peak form. Can he spark to life just when his side him the most?

Tips