A total of 32 league matches and two semifinals later, the sixth edition of the Big Bash has reached its finale. Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers are set to face-off in the final for the third time in the history of the tournament, which is now into its sixth edition.
BBL 2016-17 FINAL
Confident Scorchers aim for winning finish at the Furnace
Both teams have featured against each other in two Big Bash League (BBL) finals. While Sixers won their first final meeting, the tables was reversed when the two teams met second time around. © Cricbuzz
The two teams were up against each other in the inaugural season of the tournament, in 2011-12, with the SCG based franchise coming up trumps. Three seasons later, in 2014-15, the Scorchers had their revenge, claiming back-to-back Big Bash titles with a comprehensive victory over the Sixers. Who will turn second time lucky?
Under the coaching of Justin Langer, Scorchers have turned out to be one formidable all-round unit, consistent with the bat as well as the ball. They have lost several of their star players to injuries with almost their entire pace bowling line-up being wiped out. Jason Behrendoff, Joel Paris and Nathan Coulter-Nile were ruled out of the tournament with various injuries - although the first named has since then made a remarkable recovery and might well feature in the final. Mitchell Marsh featured in a few games before national call-up and then an injury put him out for the rest of the tournament.
Despite losing several of their big ticket players, the Scorchers have found match-winners along the way as they serenely progressed to the title round. Michael Klinger has starred with the bat and has found support from the rest of the batting unit. Adam Voges, the captain, is back after recovering from injury - a huge factor that strengthens the Scorchers' cause. However, if there's a worry, it will be the absence of Shaun Marsh - who has linked up with the national squad for the Chappell-Hadlee series in New Zealand and as such will miss the final.
While batting remains compact, Mitchell Johnson's fiery spells during the powerplay overs have been the story of the season. The former Australian pacer is back to his best and his spell of 3 for 3 against Melbourne Stars in the semifinal was a performance that reminded people of the Johnson of 2013-14 Ashes series.The left-arm pacer leads the wicket-tally for Scorchers with 12, but it is his pace and hostility that has given them the early advantage in several games.
Road to the Final
