BBL 7, Match 14 Review: Michael Klinger slams 83 as Perth Scorchers retain their unbeaten streak

The Perth Scorchers continued to maintain an unbeaten streak in the 7th edition of the Big Bash League (BBL) having registered a victory over the Sydney Sixers in a thrilling clash by 6 wickets. Veteran batsman Michael Klinger who had been going through a tough ride with the willow emerged as the matchwinner for the Scorchers smashing an aggressive 83 in 61 balls. It played a major role in helping the Scorchers chase down a steep target of 167 in tricky conditions.

Perth captain Adam Voges won the toss and decided to bowl first hoping to restrict the opposition down to a reasonable total. Their bowling unit has been delivering some excellent performances in the BBL 7 this season with veteran pace-bowler Mitchell Johnson spearheading the young unit consisting of talents like Andrew Tye and Jhye Richardson with his inputs and experience.

The plan seemed to have backfired for once as the Sixers openers Peter Nevill and Jason Roy smashed an entertaining 27 runs off the first 3 overs. But England pacer David Willey like he has done so often in this BBL castled fellow Englishman Jason Roy with a full delivery in his very first over.

Peter Nevill who was promoted up the order in a daring move by the Sixers delivered a sedate knock of 33 from 30 deliveries stitching a partnership with youngster Nic Maddinson before the pair departed back to the pavilion in just 12 overs exposing the Sixers middle-order to vulnerability.

Jordan Silk and Sam Billings ensured they posted a decent total on the table at the end of 20 overs contributing 45 and 33 respectively and with that, helping the side to a score of 167 in 20 overs.

Klinger’s masterclass seals the deal

The Perth Scorchers got off to the worst possible start in comparison losing their first wicket with just 4 runs on board in 1.3 overs. David Willey, the makeshift opener was outwitted by Sixers bowler Ben Dwarshuis.

In such a scenario, veteran batsman Klinger brought all his experience into play combining maturity with aggression as he smashed his way to 83 from 61 deliveries. He set the platform just right for swashbuckling batsman Ashton Turner and new addition Tim David to come in and knock the winning runs down with 5 balls to spare.

Brief Scores

Sydney Sixers: 167/4 after 20 overs (Silk 45; Billings 33, Johnson 0/25)

Perth Scorchers: 170/4 after 20 overs (Klinger 83; Turner 45; Sams 2/25)

Result: Perth Scorchers win by 6 wickets

Man of the Match: Michael Klinger