The Sydney Sixers, a renowned Australian professional men’s cricket franchise, have consistently delivered outstanding performances in the Big Bash League (BBL), Australia’s premier domestic Twenty20 cricket competition. Let’s embark on a journey through their rich history and remarkable achievements.
Foundation and Heritage
The Sixers, along with their cross-city rivals, the Sydney Thunder, emerged as the successors of the New South Wales Blues, who played in the now-defunct KFC Twenty20 Big Bash. The city-based franchise system in the BBL departed from state representative teams, aligning itself with the structures of cricket powerhouses like India and South Africa. The Sixers have been synonymous with success ever since.
A Grand Inauguration
The Sixers’ journey in the BBL began with a spectacular victory. Competing in the inaugural Big Bash League, they demonstrated their mettle by securing the championship. Despite finishing third in the regular season games, they stormed through the semi-finals against the Hobart Hurricanes and clinched the title in a thrilling final showdown against the Perth Scorchers in 2012. This triumphant journey made them the inaugural champions of the Big Bash League.
Home Ground
The Sydney Sixers, a powerhouse in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL), have found their fortress at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Let’s delve into their remarkable journey at this legendary cricket venue.
A Historic Home
The SCG, with its rich history, has been the abode of the Sydney Sixers since their inception. This world-class stadium underwent significant redevelopment in 2014, enhancing its capacity to accommodate 48,000 passionate cricket fans. The renovations also introduced state-of-the-art facilities and a grandstand, creating a vibrant atmosphere for fans to revel in.
The Big Bash Revolution
As the popularity of the Big Bash League continued to soar, the SCG bore witness to a historic moment in New South Wales cricket. During the “Sydney Smash” on 14 January 2017, a staggering 39,756 cricket enthusiasts filled the SCG, setting a new record for the highest attendance at a domestic cricket match in the state. The electrifying atmosphere and the sea of fans in attendance underscored the Sydney Sixers’ significance in the world of Australian cricket.
Unforgettable Moments
The Sydney Cricket Ground has witnessed countless memorable moments courtesy of the Sydney Sixers. From thrilling victories to stunning performances, this historic venue has been the backdrop for cricketing excellence. It’s where legends have been made and where records have been shattered.
A Beacon of Entertainment
Beyond cricket, the SCG has become a hub for entertainment. With one of the largest video screens in the southern hemisphere, it offers a captivating visual experience for fans. The synergy of state-of-the-art technology and the unique aura of the SCG makes every Sixers match a spectacle to behold.
Reigning Champions
The Sydney Sixers have continued to be a dominant force in the BBL, securing their second championship during the ninth BBL season in 2019–20. Their consistent performances allowed them to claim another title in the 2020–2021 season, firmly establishing the Sixers as the current BBL Champions. With three championships to their name, they share the accolade of the most successful BBL franchise with the Perth Scorchers.
By Opposition
| Opposition | Pld | W | L | T | T+W | T+L | NR | % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adelaide Strikers | 17 | 11 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 64.7 |
| Brisbane Heat | 16 | 12 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 78.12 |
| Hobart Hurricanes | 16 | 6 | 9 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 40.00 |
| Melbourne Renegades | 16 | 10 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 66.66 |
| Melbourne Stars | 18 | 11 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 63.88 |
| Perth Scorchers | 24 | 9 | 14 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 39.58 |
| Sydney Thunder | 21 | 13 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 64.28 |
Champions League Triumph
Their success in the BBL opened doors for the Sixers to participate in the prestigious Champions League Twenty20 tournament in 2012, held in South Africa. Remarkably, in their debut appearance, they clinched the Champions League title. The Sixers dominated the tournament, winning their group and defeating the Nashua Titans in the semi-finals and the Highveld Lions in the final. This historic win firmly established the Sixers as a formidable T20 team on the global stage.
The Journey Continues
The Sydney Sixers’ journey in the BBL showcases a blend of remarkable victories and a commitment to excellence. With their remarkable achievements and a legacy of success, the Sixers remain a force to be reckoned with in the world of Twenty20 cricket.
Season By Season
| Season | League position | Final position |
|---|---|---|
| 2011–12 | 3rd | Champions |
| 2012–13 | 7th | |
| 2013–14 | 2nd | Semi-Final |
| 2014–15 | 4th | Runner-Up |
| 2015–16 | 8th | |
| 2016–17 | 3rd | Runner-Up |
| 2017–18 | 5th | |
| 2018–19 | 3rd | |
| 2019–20 | 2nd | Champions |
| 2020–21 | 1st | Champions |
| 2021–22 | 2nd | Runner-Up |
| 2022–23 | 4th | Semi-Final |
Highest Totals
| SCORE | OPPONENT | GROUND |
| 213/4 | MELBOURNE STARS | SYDNEY |
| 209/10 | BRISBANE HEAT | BRISBANE |
| 205/4 | MELBOURNE RENEGADES | HOBART |
| 203/5 | ADELAIDE STRIKERS | COFFS HARBOUR |
Lowest Totals
| SCORE | OPPONENT | GROUND |
| 74 | MELBOURNE STARS | MELBOURNE |
| 76 | SYDNEY THUNDER | SYDNEY |
| 92 | PERTH SCORCHERS | DOCKLANDS |
| 97 | PERTH SCORCHERS | PERTH |
Most Runs
| PLAYER | MATCH | RUNS |
| MOISES HENRIQUES | 119 | 2646 |
| JORDON SILK | 113 | 2017 |
| JOSH PHILIPPE | 78 | 1994 |
| DANIEL HUGHES | 85 | 1965 |
Most Wickets
| PLAYER | MATCH | WICKETS |
| SEAN ABBOTT | 95 | 144 |
| BEN DWARSHUIS | 95 | 117 |
| STEVE-O-KEEFE | 94 | 91 |
| TOM CURRAN | 32 | 47 |
Sydney Sixers Squad:
Josh Philippe (wk), Kurtis Patterson, James Vince, Moises Henriques (c), Jordan Silk, Daniel Christian, Hayden Kerr, Sean Abbott, Jackson Bird, Naveen-ul-Haq, Izharulhaq Naveed, Ben Dwarshuis, Steve OKeefe, Jack Edwards, Daniel Hughes, Todd Murphy
