Sydney Sixers vs Melbourne Renegades Prediction: Sixers won last 7 games against Renegades

Sydney Sixers and Melbourne Renegades are going head to head in the 2nd Match of the Big Bash League at Sydney Cricket Ground, Moore Park, Australia on 08 Dec 2023. The hosts have won their last seven games against the Renegades. Who will win this game of cricket?

The Sydney Sixers have been one of the most successful teams in the history of the BBL, winning the title three times. Although they finished second on the points table last season, they were unable to make it to the finals after losing both their qualifier matches. However, they have managed to retain their core players and have also strengthened their team with new additions. Led by Moises Henriques, they have acquired Tom Curran and James Vince in the draft picks. Vince is expected to open the batting along with Josh Philippe, who has not been in great form recently but will be looking for a turnaround. The presence of Steve Smith, who performed exceptionally well in the previous BBL season, adds strength to their middle order. The seam attack will be spearheaded by Sean Abbott, who holds the record for being the most successful bowler in BBL history. He will be supported by Jackson Bird and Hayden Kerr. However, the spin department may be a weakness for the Sixers as they let go of Nathan Lyon and with Rehan Ahmed away on international duty, Steve O'Keefe remains the only reliable option.

Josh Philippe (wk), Steve Smith, James Vince, Kurtis Patterson, Moises Henriques (c), Jordan Silk, Tom Curran, Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Steve O'Keefe, Jackson Bird

Last season, the Renegades finished third on the points table but unfortunately lost to the Brisbane Heat in the knockout stage. However, as they embark on a fresh start, we anticipate an improved performance from them. 

A notable addition to their squad is Quinton de Kock, who showcased exceptional form during the recently concluded ODI World Cup. Nevertheless, it is unlikely that he will be available for this match. If this is the case, Joe Clarke may be partnered with Nic Maddinson as the opening batsmen, while the middle order will be strengthened by Aaron Finch, Shaun Marsh, and Jake Fraser-McGurk. 

In terms of bowling, Kane Richardson, Tom Rogers, and Peter Siddle are expected to spearhead the attack with the new ball. Rogers especially demonstrated impressive skills in the previous season, taking 23 wickets. Additionally, Mujeeb ur Rahman has been retained in the spin department and will be joined by Adam Zampa, who joins from the Stars.

JM Clarke (wk), Nic Maddinson (C), J Fraser-McGurk, Aaron Finch, Mackenzie Harvey, Jonathon Wells, Will Sutherland, Jonathon Wells, Will Sutherland, Tom Rogers, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

It is likely that the team winning the coin toss will choose to bat first. The SCG pitch offers initial assistance to the seamers, with some grass on the surface promoting movement for new balls. However, as the ball ages and becomes softer, batsmen will find it easier to play their shots. The average first-inning score at this ground is approximately 160. The weather is expected to be cloudy with a chance of rain, which could result in interruptions or a shortened match.

Both teams possess a strong squad, at least on paper, and we can anticipate a closely contested match between them. Nonetheless, we believe that the Sydney Sixers have a slight advantage. Their top order is formidable, and they have depth in their batting lineup. Additionally, being the home team, the Sixers will benefit from the home-ground advantage. It is advisable to place a bet on the Sydney Sixers to emerge victorious.