Babar Azam’s half-century guides Sydney Sixers to victory over Melbourne Renegades

Sydney Sixers successfully chased down a 165-run target, reaching the total in 19.1 overs while losing four wickets.

Babar Azam made an outstanding contribution, remaining unbeaten on 58 runs off 46 balls, including four boundaries and a six, to lead his side to victory in the 18th match of the Big Bash League 15 (BBL) at Docklands Stadium on Thursday. This performance marked a strong return to form after a disappointing debut in the tournament.

Melbourne Renegades, batting first, were restricted to 164-9 in their 20 overs. Opening batter Josh Brown was the standout performer, scoring 43 off 19 balls, including three fours and four sixes. Middle-order contributions from Jake Fraser-McGurk (38 off 29 balls) and Hassan Khan (39 off 29 balls) kept the Renegades' score competitive. Mohammad Rizwan, however, continued his struggles, dismissed for just six runs off 10 balls.

Sydney Sixers' bowlers, led by Sean Abbott, were effective in limiting the Renegades. Abbott claimed three wickets for 16 runs in his four overs, while Jack Edwards, Ben Dwarshuis, and Hayden Kerr picked up two wickets each.

In the chase, Daniel Hughes supported Azam with a solid 30 off 23 balls, and Joel Davies provided a quickfire 34 not out off 15 balls, including three fours and two sixes, ensuring the Sixers reached the target comfortably.

This win moves Sydney Sixers up to sixth place on the points table with two wins and three losses from five matches, accumulating four points. Melbourne Renegades stay seventh with one win and three losses, holding two points.