PERTH: The Perth Scorchers powered into the KFC Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 Grand Final with a commanding 48-run win over the Sydney Sixers in the Qualifier at Perth Stadium tonight.
Opting to bat first after the Sixers won the toss, the Scorchers posted a competitive 147/9 in their 20 overs on a surface that offered some assistance to the bowlers.
Explosive New Zealand opener Finn Allen once again proved to be the standout performer, smashing a quickfire 49 off just 30 balls to set a solid platform.
His aggressive innings included powerful hitting that kept the scoreboard ticking despite regular wickets falling at the other end.
Supporting contributions came from Ashton Turner (29 off 21) and Jhye Richardson (20 off 18), but the Scorchers suffered a middle-order wobble that prevented them from reaching a bigger total.
For the Sixers, the bowling attack was led effectively by Ben Dwarshuis (2/23 off 4 overs), Jack Edwards (2/25 off 4), Mitchell Starc (2/32 off 4), and others who applied consistent pressure.
In reply, the Sixers’ chase never truly got going. Babar Azam was the first one to be dismissed on a two ball-duck leaving his fans disappointed.
Despite a promising 37 off 24 from Steve Smith, who batted with fluency, the rest of the lineup crumbled under disciplined bowling from the home side.
Lachlan Shaw (15 off 13) and Josh Philippe (13 off 14) offered brief resistance, but the Sixers were bundled out for 99 in just 15 overs.
Key wickets fell regularly, with the Scorchers’ bowlers maintaining tight lines and capitalizing on the pressure.
The collapse saw the visitors lose 6 wickets for just 28 runs in a dramatic phase, sealing a comprehensive victory.
Finn Allen was deservedly named Player of the Match for his match-defining knock of 49 (30), which provided the impetus in the first innings and earned him high praise for his impact.
The win books the Perth Scorchers a direct passage to the Grand Final at Perth Stadium, where they will host the winner of the Challenger.
The Sydney Sixers now head to the Challenger for another shot at reaching the decider.
This result underscores the Scorchers’ strong form throughout the season as table-toppers, while the Sixers will rue their inability to build partnerships in the chase.
