2016-17 Big Bash League Round 8 Betting Tips
It’s the last round of action before the knockouts and the tension is palpable. Except for Adelaide Strikers, all the teams have a mathematical chance of reaching the finals and that makes it very interesting. See our full BBL06 Round 8 preview and betting tips here.
Sydney Thunder vs Adelaide Strikers (Jan 18, 7:40pm local)
Did the Thunder leave it late? A look at their performance in the last three matches makes you wonder so. The Champions gave their derby neighbours Sixers a proper hiding in the last match and hope to continue it against Strikers. Fawad Ahmed looked mesmerising while Carlos Brathwaite added energy. They need to win big and hope for favourable results elsewhere.
The Strikers are out of reckoning for the finals’ spot after a season that saw them win just twice. Inconsistency with the bat and the absence of spark from Kieron Pollard held them back. They do have a great chance though to spoil the hopes of Thunder. Can they drag Thunder out of the race?
TIP: Thunder to win – $1.80 at CrownBet
Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Renegades (Jan 20, 6:40pm local)
The Heat come into the game after their last round match against the Stars, the winner of which will confirm a knockout berth. The loss of Chris Lynn to national duty made them look listless but there is still enough quality to pick up points. The bigger question is – will Heat continue to feel the aftermath of Lynn’s absence?
The Renegades did well to keep their nerves against Strikers to keep their hopes alive. But that would count to nothing if they can’t win this match. Marcus Harris’ form is a huge plus for the side that is struggling to get consistent performances from the experienced players. But the presence of Aaron Finch gives hope of a one final push.
TIP: Renegades to win – $1.90 at Sportsbet
Hobart Hurricanes vs Perth Scorchers (Jan 21, 4:20pm local)
Tricky one for the Hurricanes who would not just want to this but win it to improve their net run-rate. Interestingly, the fate of other contenders for the fourth spot also will be glued up to Hurricanes’ fortune. The adrenaline pumping high-scoring chase against Renegades should give them momentum. Can they sustain it?
The Scorchers aren’t yet qualified although they are a lot closer to qualification than dropping out – unless of course they choose to play Santa and lose this match by humongous margin. Their dependence on Michael Klinger and Ian Bell for runs is proving to be a challenge as is the ineffectiveness of their slower bowlers.
TIP: Hurricanes to win – $2.30 at bet365
Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Sixers (Jan 21, 7:25pm local)
With a positive net run-rate and momentum with them, the Stars should be fairly confident of progressing to finals. Rob Quiney and Kevin Pietersen are playing like the pros they are in this format while Scott Boland and Ben Hilfenhaus are quietly chipping away with the ball. Stopping them will take some doing!
It’s a virtual knock-out for the the Sixers. Having bruised their run-rate against the Thunder in the last round, the Sixers will hope to find a quick remedy. Sean Abbott’s form with the ball is the only plus for a side that’s struggling to find a quick-fix to captain Henriques’ loss of form.
TIP: Stars to win at odds of 1.83 at Sportsbet
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