The second match of the two in the Big Bash League on Saturday comes from Perth as the defending champions Perth Scorchers continue their title defence against the Hobart Hurricanes in what looks to be a decent match up.
The Scorchers are already assured of a semi-final spot and a win here will guarantee they host it in their new home. Hobart can put themselves in with a chance of a home semi should they come away with the victory.
Perth Scorchers
The Scorchers lost just their second match of the season recently when they went to the Sydney Thunder and got turned over but they bounced back in style in Alice Springs when they saw off the Adelaide Strikers last weekend. They haven’t played for a week which will have given them the chance to reassess and prepare for one final push for the title.
International call ups have clearly not helped the Scorchers this season but they are coping admirably despite that and some of their unheralded players are standing up and being counted like the Scorchers need them to be. Their bowling has remained remarkably solid throughout and their batting is ticking over nicely.
Hobart Hurricanes
The Hurricanes saw a decent run of form come to an end last time out when they were beaten by the Adelaide Strikers. That saw a run of five wins in a row finish and they will no doubt be out to begin another unbeaten run in this match. They will need to be at their best if that is going to happen however.
Throughout the season so far their batting has been all about one man – D’Arcy Short, but that has been fine because their bowling attack has been solid throughout but in the last couple of games their attack has been creaking a little and that is something they will need to rectify if they are to get back to winning ways.
Team News
Perth Scorchers have Sam Whiteman fit and back in their squad for this match but Shaun Marsh remains on the sidelines. Andrew Tye, Mitchell Marsh, Jhye Richardson and David Willey are all on international duty. Adam Voges returns from his over rate ban.
Hobart Hurricanes expect Simon Milenko to be fit to play in this match in which case he would be the only change to the side that lost in Adelaide. He is likely to replace Nathan Reardon who didn’t offer much in his place.
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Betting
I like the Perth Scorchers here. They have ridden the storm of the international call ups and are gradually looking stronger. Of course they are not at full strength but Sam Whiteman returning helps their batting line up while their bowling has looked ok in the main even without their key players.
This match is all about keeping D’Arcy Short quiet. I’m not suggesting that will be easy but if they can do that then only Ben McDermott and Alex Doolan have got more than 135 runs for the season in eight matches so they could be a little light with the willow. With the Hobart attack just beginning to creak a little too I’ll go with the home side to win in their fortress once again.
Tips
WON – Back Perth Scorchers to beat Hobart Hurricanes for a 4/10 stake at 1.73 with Boylesports
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