Record-Breaking Performance
Steve Smith showed why he’s one of the best in the game with an incredible knock for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League (BBL). He scored an unbeaten 121 runs off 64 balls, helping his team post a massive total of 220 runs, the highest in their history.
Back-to-Back Centuries
This was Smith’s third BBL century, putting him alongside Ben McDermott at the top. McDermott has played 100 BBL games, but this was just Smith’s 32nd match in the tournament. Smith had also scored back-to-back centuries for the Sixers in a previous season.
A Difficult Start Turned into Dominance
At one point, the Sixers were struggling to make runs, but Smith’s brilliance changed everything. He and teammate Moises Henriques (46 off 28 balls) put on a partnership of 113 runs for the third wicket. The Sixers were then able to reach a total of 220, a target that seemed impossible early on.
Big Hitting from Ben Dwarshuis
Ben Dwarshuis also made an impact in the final overs, hitting a couple of sixes. However, it was Smith who did most of the damage, playing one of his best innings on a pitch that was tough to bat on. He hit many boundaries, including some spectacular switch hits.
What is this leave, Steve Smith? 😂#BBL14 pic.twitter.com/1q1YqjCRkm
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 11, 2025
Catch Controversy
Smith was nearly out on 121 when he went for a third six, but replays showed that the fielder had touched the boundary rope while trying to catch the ball. This meant the ball was ruled a six, and Smith continued to score more runs.
Sixers’ Record-Breaking Total
In the end, the Sixers finished with 3/220, setting a new team record for the highest total in BBL history. The Scorchers, on the other hand, had a tough time, with AJ Tye giving up 64 runs in his four overs.
BBL Match Summary
Team | Score | Top Scorer | Wickets |
---|---|---|---|
Sydney Sixers | 3/220 | Steve Smith (121) | 3 |
Perth Scorchers | 9/218 | Ashton Turner (43) | 3 |
Looking Ahead
The match was crucial for both teams. The Sixers are in second place on the BBL ladder, just two points behind the Hurricanes. The Scorchers are trying to reach the top four and needed a win to keep their finals hopes alive.