Thu 10 Dec 2020 @ Blundstone Arena, Hobart<\/em><\/p>\n The Hurricanes begin their quest for a maiden BBL title this Thursday night as they host the Sixers. With the first part of the season being played in a Tasmanian bubble, the \u2018Canes really need to take advantage of the situation and that starts with a good first up performance. While they will miss the services of Matty Wade atop the batting, they\u2019ve recruited some firepower with Ingram and Will Jacks. They should also get Short back from the T20 series against India. Not to mention, Ben McDermott smashed 96 off just 49 in a practice match against the Sixers on Tuesday. Bowling wise, the addition of Johan Botha also gives them more experience around the park and a solid spin option along with their pace bowling stocks.<\/p>\n Sydney will start their BBL title defence with a massive blow as Tom Curran will miss this year\u2019s edition due to fatigue. Last season, he finished 2nd in the league for wickets taken (22) and was always handy with the bat in the late overs. So the pressure will be on Abbott and Dwarshuis to pick up the slack in the death overs. While in the batting department, the key will be getting off to a good start with the likes of Philippe and Vince. Hopefully Moises Henriques can lineup as well after playing against India.<\/p>\n The Sixers will take confidence out of their final over win over the \u2018Canes in Tuesday\u2019s practice match. However, the home side will likely welcome back D\u2019Arcy Short into lineup and as mentioned, Curran is a big out for the Sixers. So we\u2019ll be backing the \u2018Canes to start the season with a close win as they hold a solid winning record at this venue and against the Sixers.<\/p>\n Stadium Record<\/strong><\/p>\n Hobart went 2-2 at this venue last season. Sydney are 2-3 here since 2011.<\/p>\n