Written by Jason Dewey for @Hollywoodbets. Follow them both on Twitter and Facebook now!
We’re reaching the exciting play-off stage of BBL05, with seven teams all battling hard for a semi-final spot – the tension is palpable!
This Saturday kicks off with the highly anticipated second Melbourne derby as the Renegades take on the Stars at the stunning Etihad Stadium. Then on Sunday, a thrilling double-header awaits with the Hurricanes hosting the Scorchers, followed by the Sixers welcoming the Heat to the SCG.
Saturday 9 January
Renegades 1/1
Draw 35/1
Stars 8/10
Melbourne will be buzzing as the Renegades and Stars face off at Etihad Stadium. While neither has hit top gear yet, the Renegades sit sixth, just two points behind the third-placed Stars.
Off the pitch, controversy has surrounded Chris Gayle following inappropriate comments to journalist Melanie McLaughlin, resulting in a fine and a formal apology now accepted. Back to cricket — the Renegades will be without captain Aaron Finch due to national duties, along with Matthew Wade, but could see James Pattinson return depending on Cricket Australia’s approval. Peter Siddle continues to recover from injury.
The Stars will miss Glenn Maxwell, Scott Boland, and James Faulkner due to the Australian ODI squad announcements, with replacements coming in and Ben Hilfenhaus making a comeback.
Despite the missing stars, expect plenty of talent on display. Key players like Dwayne Bravo and Chris Gayle have been instrumental for the Renegades, with Bravo’s consistent batting and economical bowling shining through. Michael Beer will need to maintain his impressive bowling economy for the Stars to claim victory.
Local derbies are always tough to call, but with the Stars missing key players and Kevin Pietersen slightly off form, the Renegades look poised to edge this one at 1/1.
Sunday 10 January
Hurricanes 11/10
Draw 35/1
Scorchers 7/10
Hobart Hurricanes will host top dogs Perth Scorchers. The Hurricanes have faltered lately, losing their last two, while the Scorchers bounced back strongly with a 30-run win over the Strikers.
With only George Bailey selected for national duties, Hurricanes’ squad remains mostly intact. The Scorchers are missing Marsh brothers and Joel Paris due to the Australian call-up.
The Hurricanes know they need a win to keep their play-off hopes alive. Key players Tim Paine, Dan Christian, and Kumar Sangakkara will need to deliver in a big way. On the flip side, the Scorchers’ quality remains high, with promising returns from Michael Klinger, Adam Voges, and Ashton Agar.
The smart bet is on the Scorchers at 7/10 to secure a strong win and lock in a play-off place.
Sixers 8/10
Draw 35/1
Heat 1/1
Sunday’s night game pits the struggling Brisbane Heat against the Sydney Sixers who are battling to stay in the competition. The Heat have been disappointing this season, with key overseas players not living up to expectations, while the Sixers have faltered in recent matches but remain in the fight for a semi-final spot.
The Heat may get some cheer with Joe Burns potentially returning from Test duty. The Sixers could see Nathan Lyon back on the field, a big boost considering his stellar bowling performance earlier in the season.
Chris Lynn remains the lone star in the Heat lineup with outstanding batting form, but his efforts have lacked adequate support. The Sixers are nursing injuries to key players Brad Haddin and Moses Henriques, but expect a determined team effort.
The Heat look down and out, and with the Sixers fighting for survival, backing the Sixers at 8/10 is a wise choice.
Bet on this match now at Hollywoodbets.net! Haven’t got an account? Open one here now
