Sydney Thunder will take on Perth Scorchers in Match 16 of the ongoing 2025/26 Big Bash League at the Sydney Showground Stadium on 30th December 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 season. This match could go either way, with both sides failing to grasp crucial in-game moments so far this season.

Here, we present our preview and predictions for Match 16 between the Thunder and the Scorchers

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

Sydney Thunder have really struggled to get going this season, managing just the win alongside three heavy defeats that have left them placed seventh on the table. Pressure is mounting on David Warner and co to refine the finer details before chances of reaching the knockout fixtures evaporate quickly. 

Their batting output has provided very few positives, although New South Welshman Matthew Gilkes has been the standout performer so far, scoring 132 runs across four outings while striking at a healthy strike rate of 183.

Sam Billings and Cameron Bancroft have provided useful support from the middle order, with both crossing the 100-run mark and at a decent rate. Bancroft’s experience and ability to carry the burden through the middle overs will be crucial for the Thunder, especially with skipper David 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 bat – scoring 100 runs from three innings at 127; as well as taking six wickets to sit as the Thunder’s highest wicket-taker this season. 

The rest of the 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 as well, while the rest of the spin support cast has been found missing with both Chris Green and Tanveer Sangha proving ineffective so far. 

Perth Scorchers, having made a decent start, after winning against the Sydney Sixers in their opener and now suffered two back-to-back losses to 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 in the coming games.

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 at the top order, though he does have a habit of throwing his wicket away. When Finn fires, Perth look dangerous.

With Josh Inglis now available after leaving the Australian Test camp, the Scorchers’ batting unit looks much stronger. His inclusion is a big plus for the team.

Nick Hobson and Laurie Evans offer additional stability, with both men crossing the 50-run mark this campaign. Mitchell Marsh has misfired so far, but the Scorchers will be hoping their batting star 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 them with 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 lights sometimes. Moreover, in both the BBL games played at the Sydney Showground Stadium this season, the team winning the toss has chosen to bowl first. We reckon this pattern will continue in this match too.

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