BBL 2025/26 | Match 16: Sydney Thunder vs Perth Scorchers | Preview and Predictions

The Sydney Thunder will take on the Perth Scorchers in Match 16 of the 2025/26 KFC Big Bash League season at the Sydney Showground Stadium on December 30, 2025.

Both teams have been inconsistent up to this point, and picking up a win here would give either side a real boost heading into the rest of the season. This match could also go either way, with both sides evenly matched and failing to swing crucial in-game moments in their favour.

Here, we present our preview and predictions for Match 16 of BBL|15.

BBL|15 Match 16: Thunder vs Scorchers | 13:45 IST, December 30, 2025

The Thunder have really struggled to get going, managing just one win alongside three heavy defeats, which has left them seventh on the league table. Pressure is mounting on David Warner and Co to fine-tune the squad before chances of reaching the knockouts evaporate. 

Their batting output has provided few positives, with New South Welshman Matthew Gilkes being their standout performer thus far, having scored 132 runs across four outings striking at a strike rate of 183.

Sam Billings and Cameron Bancroft have provided useful support in the middle order, both having crossed the 100-run mark for the tournament and at a decent strike rate. Bancroft’s experience and ability to carry the burden through the middle overs will be crucial for the Thunder, especially with skipper Warner yet to contribute meaningfully after three outings in his new role as a middle-order batter. 

Lower down the order, Shadab Khan has made an impact both with bat and ball, scoring 100 runs from three innings at a strike rate of 127 while taking six wickets to lead the Thunder’s wicket-taking chart.

The rest of their bowling attack has looked toothless at times despite having some solid names in the mix. Both Reece Topley and all-rounder Daniel Sams share three wickets each but have gone for plenty of runs, while Shadab Khan’s spin support cast has left much to be desired, with both Chris Green and Tanveer Sangha proving ineffective so far. 

The Scorchers, on the other hand, have suffered back-to-back losses after their decent win against the Sydney Sixers in their opener and sit fifth in the table with just two points. With games coming thick and fast now till the end of the season, they need to work on building some momentum.

Cooper Connolly has been their leading run scorer so far, scoring 142 runs across three innings while striking at 189. Finn Allen has matched that impact, clubbing 138 runs in three matches and adding real firepower at the top with a strike rate of 200. He’s capable of taking control of the top order, though he does have a habit of throwing his wicket away. When Allen fires, however, the Scorchers look dangerous. With Josh Inglis now available after leaving the Australian Test camp, their batting unit looks much stronger.

Nick Hobson and Laurie Evans offer additional stability, both having crossed the 50-run mark this campaign. Mitchell Marsh has misfired so far, but the Scorchers will be hoping that the veteran star batter gets back into the groove soon, as he can change the complexion of the game with his big hits.

Their bowling attack has performed decently, though they need more wicket-taking options. Joel Paris leads the attack and has claimed three scalps in three matches while going at 8.66 runs per over, while Cooper Connolly and Brody Couch have grabbed five wickets together, providing useful bowling depth.

In terms of weather forecast and pitch report, the weather in Sydney is expected to be nice and pleasant throughout the day. Batters often need to be patient when playing on this wicket, as it can behave unevenly under the lights sometimes. Moreover, in both the BBL games played at the Sydney Showground Stadium this season, the side winning the toss has chosen to bowl first; we reckon this pattern will continue in this match too.

Looking ahead to this fixture, the Sydney Thunder and the Perth Scorchers both need a win here to keep their campaigns going. At this stage, neither side has a clear form advantage over the other, and both have been inconsistent throughout this campaign. The Thunder do get a boost from playing on home turf, though the Scorchers’ batting power gives them the edge here. As long as their top order fires, they will be favourites for the win; if they don’t, the Thunder may take this.

Fantasy XI: Matthew Gilkes, Mitchell Marsh, Sam Konstas, Finn Allen (c), Cooper Connolly, Cameron Bancroft, Josh Inglis (vc), Shadab Khan, Daniel Sams, Joel Paris, Brody Couch

Venue: Sydney Showground Stadium, Sydney 
Winners Prediction: Perth Scorchers