Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder Prediction: Who Will Win SYS vs SYT 37th T20 BBL Match?
The Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder prediction brings fans one of the most anticipated clashes of the Big Bash League 2026—the iconic Sydney Derby. Scheduled for Friday, 16th January 2026 at the historic Sydney Cricket Ground, this 37th T20 match holds massive importance, especially for the Sydney Sixers, who are battling hard to secure a top-four finish. Cricketwebs presents a complete breakdown including team previews, fantasy tips, pitch analysis, and the final Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder prediction to help fans and fantasy players make informed decisions.
Sydney Sixers currently occupy fourth place on the points table and know that a win here could almost seal their playoff qualification. With experienced names like Steve Smith, Sam Curran, and Moises Henriques available, the Sixers carry a strong blend of international quality and domestic consistency. However, their record at the SCG this season has been slightly concerning, having failed to cross competitive totals while batting first.
Sydney Thunder, on the other hand, are already out of playoff contention but remain dangerous. They recently upset Melbourne Renegades and will be keen to play party spoilers once again. Historically, Thunder have struggled at the SCG, losing eight of their 13 matches at this venue, which tilts the balance towards the Sixers.
The Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder prediction also factors in head-to-head dominance, where the Sixers clearly hold the upper hand. With form, venue advantage, and squad depth favouring them, Sydney Sixers start as favourites, but derby games often defy logic, making this contest a must-watch.
- Sydney Sixers fighting for a crucial top-four spot
- Sydney Thunder aim to spoil Sixers’ playoff hopes
- Sixers dominate head-to-head and SCG record
- A competitive Sydney Derby expected
Match Details
| Match | Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder, 37th T20 |
|---|---|
| Tournament | Big Bash League 2026 |
| Date | Friday, 16 January 2026 |
| Time | 1:45 PM IST |
| Venue | Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney |
Team Preview
Sydney Sixers Preview
Sydney Sixers enter this derby under pressure but with destiny in their own hands. Sitting fourth with nine points, a win here would significantly boost their chances of playoff qualification. The return of Steve Smith and Sam Curran at a crucial stage has added much-needed stability and confidence to the side.
The Sixers’ batting has been inconsistent this season. Josh Philippe has been their leading run-scorer, but the top order has struggled to convert starts into big scores. Babar Azam’s slow strike rate in the powerplay has been a talking point, often putting pressure on the middle order. However, the presence of Smith and Curran could offset this concern, especially in a high-pressure derby.
Moises Henriques continues to provide leadership and balance, while Sean Abbott and Jack Edwards have been excellent contributors with both bat and ball. Edwards, in particular, has impressed with his wicket-taking ability in both the powerplay and death overs.
The bowling unit remains the Sixers’ biggest strength. Ben Dwarshuis and Joel Davies offer control and swing with the new ball, while Abbott’s variations at the death make him a constant threat. If the Sixers can post or chase a competitive total, their disciplined bowling attack gives them a clear edge over the Thunder.
Sydney Thunder Preview
Sydney Thunder are languishing at the bottom of the table but showed character in their recent win against Melbourne Renegades. While playoffs are out of reach, Thunder will be motivated to end their season on a high by upsetting their city rivals.
Matthew Gilkes has been the standout batter, scoring over 220 runs and providing solidity at the top. Sam Billings has also contributed valuable runs in the middle order, while Nic Maddinson and Cameron Green add depth and finishing power.
Thunder’s bowling attack has been inconsistent. Daniel Sams has been the lone bright spot, leading the wicket charts for the team. Support from Wes Agar and Tom Andrews has been patchy, which has often allowed opposition batters to dominate the middle overs.
Playing at the SCG has historically been a challenge for the Thunder, and unless their bowlers produce an exceptional performance, containing the Sixers’ experienced lineup will be difficult.
Also Check: BBL 2025-26: Points Table, Most Runs & Most Wickets
Team Squads
Sydney Sixers: Steve Smith, Babar Azam, Josh Philippe, Moises Henriques, Sam Curran, Sean Abbott, Jack Edwards, Ben Dwarshuis, Joel Davies, Ben Manenti, Lachlan Shaw.
Sydney Thunder: Matthew Gilkes, Sam Konstas, Cameron Bancroft, Sam Billings, Daniel Sams, David Willey, Cameron Green, Nic Maddinson, Tom Andrews, Wes Agar, Ryan Hadley.
Probable Playing XI
| Sydney Sixers | Sydney Thunder |
|---|---|
| Steve Smith | Matthew Gilkes |
| Babar Azam | Sam Konstas |
| Josh Philippe (wk) | Cameron Bancroft |
| Moises Henriques (c) | Sam Billings |
| Sam Curran | Daniel Sams |
| Sean Abbott | David Willey |
| Jack Edwards | Cameron Green |
| Joel Davies | Nic Maddinson |
| Ben Dwarshuis | Tom Andrews |
| Ben Manenti | Wes Agar |
| Lachlan Shaw | Ryan Hadley |
Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Steve Smith, Josh Philippe, Matthew Gilkes |
| All-rounders | Sam Curran, Daniel Sams, Cameron Green |
| Wicketkeeper | Sam Billings |
| Bowlers | Jack Edwards, Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Wes Agar |
This fantasy XI is built around balance, form, and match impact for the Sydney Derby. Steve Smith is a must-have pick due to his experience and ability to anchor high-pressure chases at the SCG. Josh Philippe complements him as an aggressive opener who can capitalize on the powerplay. Matthew Gilkes has been Sydney Thunder’s most consistent batter this season and provides reliability at the top.
All-rounders play a crucial role in fantasy contests, making Sam Curran and Daniel Sams premium selections. Curran contributes in all phases of the game—new ball, death overs, and finishing with the bat—while Sams is Thunder’s leading wicket-taker and a handy lower-order hitter. Cameron Green adds extra depth, offering both power-hitting and seam bowling options.
Sam Billings is a safe wicketkeeper choice due to his consistency and involvement behind the stumps. Among bowlers, Jack Edwards and Sean Abbott are key picks for their wicket-taking ability, especially in pressure overs. Ben Dwarshuis provides left-arm variation, while Wes Agar offers strike potential with the new ball. This combination maximizes points across batting, bowling, and all-round contributions.
Captain: Sam Curran
Vice-Captain: Steve Smith
Players to Avoid:
- Sam Konstas (inexperience at this level)
- Ryan Hadley (limited fantasy impact)
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today & Why
Sydney Sixers are the clear favourites in today’s match due to their superior squad depth, experience, and dominant record at the Sydney Cricket Ground. With playoff qualification on the line, the Sixers have extra motivation compared to the Thunder, who are already out of contention. The presence of big-match players like Steve Smith and Sam Curran gives the Sixers a decisive edge in pressure situations. Additionally, their bowling attack is more disciplined and consistent, which is crucial on the SCG surface. Thunder’s poor historical record at this venue further strengthens the Sixers’ case as favourites.
Sydney Sixers T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | NR | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 174 | 103 | 64 | 7 | 0 |
Sydney Thunder T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | NR | Tie |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 158 | 64 | 87 | 7 | 0 |
Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches | Sixers Won | Thunder Won | NR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 | 18 | 8 | 2 |
Sydney Sixers have dominated the Sydney Derby historically, winning more than twice as many matches as Sydney Thunder.
Also Check: Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder Head to Head in T20 – Records, Team & Players Stats
Pitch Report
The Sydney Cricket Ground offers a balanced surface with true bounce. Batters can score freely once set, but spinners and seamers who vary pace often find success. First-innings scores around 155–165 are competitive. Chasing sides usually enjoy a slight advantage under lights.
Weather Report
| Condition | Forecast |
|---|---|
| Weather | Clear |
| Temperature | 24–27°C |
| Rain | Minimal |
Ideal weather conditions are expected with no interruptions.
Broadcast Details
The match will be broadcast live on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. Live streaming and highlights will also be available on official digital platforms.
Toss Prediction
Sydney Thunder are slightly favoured to win the toss. The team winning the toss is likely to bowl first to exploit any early movement and chase under lights.
Score Prediction
- If Sydney Sixers bat first: 158+
- If Sydney Thunder bat first: 155+
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Probable Batsman:
Steve Smith is the most probable top scorer in this contest. His calm approach, excellent shot selection, and ability to handle pressure make him ideally suited for a high-stakes Sydney Derby. Batting in the top order, Smith is expected to play a match-defining innings. For Sydney Thunder, Matthew Gilkes remains the most reliable batter. He has been consistent throughout the season and has the technique to succeed on the SCG surface.
Probable Bowler:
Jack Edwards is likely to be the standout bowler for Sydney Sixers. His knack for picking wickets in both the powerplay and death overs makes him a constant threat. For Sydney Thunder, Daniel Sams is the most probable wicket-taker. His variations, left-arm angle, and experience in crunch moments give him the edge in breaking partnerships.
Also Check For More: Big Bash League Prediction
Match Prediction
Based on current form, squad strength, and historical dominance at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney Sixers are favourites to win this match. Their superior bowling depth and experienced batting lineup should prove decisive against a Sydney Thunder side that has struggled for consistency. Expect the Sixers to control key moments and secure a crucial victory in the race for playoff qualification.
Winner: Sydney Sixers Will Win
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
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