Sydney Sixers Dominate Sydney Thunder as Babar Azam Shines in Sydney Smash
Sydney Sixers 198/5 beat Sydney Thunder 151 by 47 runs in a commanding Sydney Smash performance, powered by a superb batting display from Josh Philippe and Babar Azam.
Babar Azam finally announced his arrival in the Big Bash League, scoring his maiden BBL half-century, while Philippe narrowly missed a century as the Sixers bounced back strongly after two early-season defeats.
Babar Azam and Josh Philippe Lead Sixers’ Revival
On a rare flat and fast batting surface at Engie Stadium, Sydney Sixers produced one of their most complete performances in recent seasons. The pitch stood in stark contrast to the slower surfaces often seen at the venue, allowing stroke-makers to flourish.
Under pressure following consecutive losses, the spotlight was firmly on Babar Azam, who had struggled in his first two BBL outings with scores of 2 and 9. This time, however, the former Pakistan captain showed his class and composure.
Babar played the role of anchor perfectly, scoring 58 off 42 balls, while forming a match-defining 140-run partnership for the second wicket with the in-form Josh Philippe. Philippe was the aggressor, blasting 96 off 57 deliveries, before falling heartbreakingly short of a maiden BBL century in the final over.
Philippe’s Power, Babar’s Poise Set Up Big Total
After Thunder skipper David Warner chose to bowl first, Babar adopted a cautious approach in the powerplay, focusing on strike rotation. Dan Hughes provided early momentum with attacking intent, scoring the bulk of the runs before being bowled by left-arm pacer Reece Topley.
Once Philippe settled in, the momentum shifted dramatically. He took on the spinners—particularly Shadab Khan—launching multiple sixes and showing why he has been Sydney Sixers’ most reliable batter this season.
Babar reached double figures for the first time in his BBL career with a classy flick through backward square leg and later struck his first-ever BBL six off Daniel Sams. Both batters brought up their half-centuries in style, giving Sixers complete control of the innings.
Babar’s stay ended in the 18th over after an overturned decision saw him caught behind, while Philippe’s innings ended agonisingly close to a century when he was caught inches from the turf at deep backward point.
Thunder Collapse After Nightmare Start
Chasing a record target at the ground, Sydney Thunder’s reply unraveled early. They slumped to 17 for 3, losing Matthew Gilkes, Sam Konstas, and David Warner inside the powerplay.
Warner, batting at No. 3 for the first time in his BBL career, returned after missing the opening match due to injury but managed just 2 runs, falling to a short delivery from Jack Edwards.
Edwards delivered a match-winning spell, finishing with 5 for 26, as Thunder never recovered from their early collapse.
Billings and Shadab Show Resistance, But Too Late
Sam Billings attempted to spark a comeback with a brisk 51 off 28 balls, while Shadab Khan added 41, but the required run rate continued to climb.
Despite their efforts, Thunder failed to apply sustained pressure, eventually being bowled out for 151, handing Sixers a comprehensive 47-run victory.
What This Result Means
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Sydney Sixers get their BBL campaign back on track after early setbacks
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Babar Azam gains confidence with his first BBL fifty
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Josh Philippe continues outstanding form as Sixers’ batting leader
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Sydney Thunder, last season’s finalists, remain winless after two matches
Final Thoughts
The Sydney Smash once again belonged to the Sixers, who showcased their dominance with a clinical all-round performance. With Babar Azam finding form and Philippe firing consistently, Sydney Sixers look poised for a strong run in the Big Bash League season.
Babar Azam BBL
Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder
Sydney Smash result
Josh Philippe 96
Big Bash League match report
BBL Sydney Derby
Babar Azam maiden BBL fifty
Sixers vs Thunder highlights
Babar Azam first BBL half century
Sydney Sixers beat Sydney Thunder by 47 runs
Josh Philippe Big Bash performance
Jack Edwards five wicket haul
David Warner Sydney Thunder dismissal
BBL 2025 match analysis
Sydney Smash full match report
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