The Sydney Thunder have stormed into a Big Bash League grand final qualifier against rivals the Sydney Sixers with 21-run knockout final win over the resurgent Melbourne Stars.
Nathan McAndrew (5-16) recorded T20 career-best figures, and the best by a Thunder player in BBL history, to put last year’s wooden spooners only one win away from a shot at a second title. https://www.smh.com.au/sport/cricket/big-bash-league-live-stars-send-thunder-in-to-bat-in-must-win-finals-match-20250122-p5l6fr.html
The Thunders were right on the money playing infront of their home crowd. It was not looking good for them after they folded up on a paltry score but they defended the below par score like the pros.
I wouldn't blame the Big Show, he was the highest scorer even in the losing cause. I don't know why other batters kept on playing rash shots and went back one after another. It was one man show, Maxi show, that Stars even reached to the finals.
Not to take away any credits from Thunders, they played and executed better than the Stars. They deserve this victory.
Now they will fight against the Sixers on Jan 24 and the winner of that match will face Hurricanes.
My heart says Thunders can win against the Sixers but without the injured Daniel Sams, the odds aren't in their favour. But as I always keep saying "Cricket is the most unpredictable game", so anything can happen!