Hobart Hurricanes defeated the Sydney Sixers by 12 runs on January 21, 2025, at Ninja Stadium, securing their place in the Big Bash League final for the first time since 2020. After being sent to bat first, the Hurricanes set the target with 173 runs, primarily aided by Ben McDermott’s 42 runs off 31 balls, alongside impactful performances from Mitch Owen and Tim David.
The team capitalized on their home advantage, marking their first hosting of a finals match since 2020. Facing the Hurricanes, the Sydney Sixers struggled at the start, falling to 5-3 before Jordan Silk's 57 runs off 44 balls and Kurtis Patterson's 48 helped recover the innings. They ended their chase at 161 runs, resulting in the Hurricanes winning the qualifier.
"They were outstanding with the ball," remarked former Australian opener Aaron Finch, praising the Hurricanes' bowling unit. Cameron Gannon was particularly impressive, finishing with figures of 2-10 from 3 overs, leading his team effectively against the Sydney batsmen.
Earlier, the Hurricanes had their moments of glory with Owen showing his explosive batting capabilities, scoring 36 runs off just 15 balls, which laid the foundation for their competitive score. Ricky Ponting highlighted Owen's contributions during the game, calling him a remarkable addition at the top of the order.
A thrilling element of the match was the catches taken, with Sydney's Jack Edwards impressively leaping to catch Matthew Wade at point. The catch was deemed by Fox Sports commentator Mark Howard as the “catch of the summer.” Meanwhile, Ben McDermott also pulled off an incredible slip catch to dismiss the Sixers' captain, Moises Henriques.
With the victory, the Hurricanes are now one step away from claiming their first BBL title, having lost the final on two previous occasions. Their next match is set against the winner of the upcoming challenger match between the Sydney Thunder and Melbourne Stars.
Fans celebrated the achievement of watching the Hurricanes not only win at home but also have solidified their place at the top of the ladder. The atmosphere at Ninja Stadium was electric, filled with supporters eager to cheer on their team during this historic encounter.
The significance of this win cannot be understated, as it marks a moment for the Hurricanes to establish themselves as serious contenders for the title. The upcoming final promises to be lively, with attendees already buzzing with excitement over whom the Hurricanes will face next.
Team celebrations continued post-match, with players and fans expressing hope for the future as they prepare to chase the elusive championship. The knockout match on January 22 will determine who the Hurricanes face on the big stage next, with the potential of seeing the Sixers again unforgettable.