In the 9th match Big Boss League (BBL) 2025–26, Sydney Thunder showed a comprehensive team to beat Brisbane Heat 34 runs at Manuka Oval. After winning the toss and dominating the bowl, the Heat were on the back foot as the Thunder’s top order laid a strong foundation that ultimately proved decisive.
Matthew Gilkes and Sam Konstas anchor a big total for Sydney Thunder
Sydney Thunder posted a stunning 193 for 4 in 20 overs, built around a fluent opening stand between them. Matthew Gilkes and Constas himself. Gilkes was the standout performer with a 48-ball 76, but aggressively hitting four boundaries and three sixes to keep the scoreboard ticking. On the other hand, Konstas played an excellent supporting role with 63 off 45 deliveries, peppered with eight fours and displayed maturity beyond his years.
David Warner‘s brief cameo added early momentum, the real acceleration came with the death Sam BillingsHe smashed 25 off just 11 balls. Daniel Sams He came in with a handy contribution to ensure the Thunder finished strong. For Brisbane Heat, Jack Wildermuth He was the most effective bowler taking two wickets for 25 runs Matthew Kuhnemann and Shaheen Afridi every wicket claimed but failed to stem the flow of runs.
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Brisbane Heat’s chase falters under pressure
Chasing 194, Brisbane Heat never found the sustained momentum required. Matt Renshaw He top-scored with a struggling 43 off 28 balls Hugh Weibgen added a constant 30. Max Bryant provided some late fireworks with two sixes, but stopped chasing regular wickets and pushed the asking rate beyond reach.
The turning point came through disciplined bowling led perfectly by Sydney Thunder Shadab Khan. The leg-spinner produced a match-winning spell, finishing with excellent figures of 4 for 24, cutting through the middle order and breaking the core of the Heat innings. Sams offered excellent support with two wickets of 25 as Brisbane Heat were restricted to 159 for 6 at the end of the 20 overs. Gilkes was rightly named Man of the Match for his commanding knock at the top, setting the tone for a performance that underlined the Thunder’s credentials as formidable contenders in BBL|15.
First win of the season for Sydney Thunder ⚡#Sydneythunder #BBL2025 pic.twitter.com/tapun8XcxL
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 22, 2025
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