Sydney Sixers were crowned Big Bash League champions for a second time on Saturday after Melbourne Stars fell short during the run-chase in a rain-affected match that capped a near two-month competition.
Chasing 117 to win a game reduced to 12 overs, Glenn Maxwell’s Stars could only manage 97 for six as they suffered a second finals defeat in a row after imploding against the Melbourne Renegades last year.
“It’s fantastic, it was an entertaining game of cricket,” said Sixers captain Moises Henriques after the 19-run win at the Sydney Cricket Ground secured their second title and first since the inaugural season in 2011-12.
“The wicket played pretty well after so much rain. Well done to the ground staff and congratulations to the Stars on a great season.”
It was remarkable the match went ahead with Sydney drenched by torrential rain for two straight days, which only let up as the final was due to start, with the game getting underway more than an hour late.
Unlike most other Twenty20 events around the world, no finals reserve day is built into the BBL structure which would have meant the Sixers claiming victory as the host team if no play was possible.
Nathan Lyon (2-19) and Steve O’Keefe (2-27) were the pick of the Sixers’ bowlers after they made 116 for five in their innings, spearheaded by impressive opener Josh Philippe's 52.
“The boys can hold their heads up high, we’ve had a great year,” said Maxwell. "Unfortunately we let ourselves tonight, but they can be proud. Two finals in a row. We’ve been extremely consistent. Onwards and upwards to next year.”