The Perth Scorchers produced a near-perfect bowling performance to put themselves firmly on top against the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League (BBL) final at Optus Stadium. On a slightly slow and two-paced surface, the Scorchers read the conditions brilliantly and never allowed the Sixers to settle with the bat. After winning the toss and choosing to field, Perth’s bowlers executed their plans with discipline and patience. Despite a few Sixers batters getting starts, none could convert them into a big score, leaving the visitors struggling throughout their innings. By the end of 20 overs, the Sydney Sixers were bowled out for a below-par 132, a total that strongly favoured the Scorchers, given their deep and experienced batting line-up. All eyes will now be on how Perth approach the chase as they look to add another BBL title to their rich history. Pyne-Richardson bag 3-wickets each for Scorchers Perth Scorchers struck early and maintained pressure right from the powerplay. Jhye Richardson led the attack with pace, bounce and clever variations, finishing with an impressive three-wicket haul. His early breakthrough removed Daniel Hughes, while his timely strikes later ensured the Sixers never gained momentum. David Payne was equally outstanding, using slower balls and tight lines to great effect. The left-arm seamer picked up three key wickets, including those of Josh Philippe and Moises Henriques, both of whom looked set but failed to push on. Payne’s spell kept the run rate in check and forced the Sixers into risky shots. Young pacer Mahli Beardman also made a strong impact at the death, picking up crucial wickets as the Sixers collapsed in the final overs. Sixers struggle despite starts, Score 132/10 in 20 overs Sydney Sixers had a steady start, with Steve Smith looking fluent early in his innings. Smith top-scored with 24, while Josh Philippe and Moises Henriques also made 24 each. However, all three batters failed to convert their starts, which proved costly. The highest partnership of the innings never really threatened the Scorchers, as regular wickets kept halting any flow. Once Smith was trapped lbw by Aaron Hardie, the pressure increased sharply, and the middle order failed to respond. Eight batters were dismissed for single-digit or low double-digit scores, highlighting Perth’s tight bowling and sharp fielding throughout the innings. Late collapse seals Sixers’ fate in BBL final against Scorchers The final overs saw a complete collapse for Sydney. Trying to accelerate, the lower order lost wickets quickly, including a run-out that ended the innings at 132 all out. The Scorchers’ fielders stayed alert, backing up their bowlers with safe catching and energetic work in the deep. Only 10 runs came from the power surge overs, during which the Sixers also lost three wickets, swinging the game decisively in Perth’s favour. Scorchers are firm favourites in the chase With a target of 133 on a slow pitch, Perth Scorchers will be confident of chasing it down with calm and measured batting. While the surface may offer some assistance to bowlers, the Scorchers’ strong batting depth and home advantage make them clear favourites heading into the second innings. Post navigation Pakistan announce T20 World Cup squad after pull-out hoax:Haris Rauf dropped, Babar-Shaheen included; PAK to face IND on 15 February Former Pakistan legend Abdul Qadir’s son accused of rape:FIR lodged by housemaid, sent for medical examination; police took Suleiman Qadir into custody for ongoing investigation