Smith fifty helps Sixers jump to the top spot

Smith Fifty Propels Sixers to Victory and Top Spot

The Sydney Sixers claimed the top spot on the table with a thrilling three-wicket win over the Adelaide Strikers. Centurion in the last match, Steve Smith played a decisive knock of 54 off 31 balls to anchor the Sixers to victory.

Strikers' Top Order Falters

The Strikers got off to a poor start as skipper Matthew Short fell in the first over. D'Arcy Short and Alex Carey began to rebuild the innings with five boundaries across three overs. However, the Sixers' spinner Todd Murphy struck twice in his first over, dismissing both left-handers.

Ollie Pope and Alex Ross revived the innings with a 97-run stand. The early fall of wickets meant that the Sixers could bowl quiet overs without conceding boundaries. Ross scored 35 runs in two overs against Sean Abbott and Jamie Overton, taking the Strikers past the 100-mark.

Sixers' Chase Down Target

In the chase, Joshua Philippe fell early, but Steve Smith was in a menacing mood, smashing two sixes and two fours. Despite Edwards being run-out, Smith continued to bring up a fine fifty. He fell in Overton's first over, and the Sixers landed in further trouble as Jordan Silk was dismissed a few balls later.

The fall of wickets continued, but Ben Dwarshuis (30) and Lachlan Shaw (32) ensured the Sixers continued their winning ways. Hayden's quick cameo of 18 off 9 balls sealed the win for the Sixers.

Brief Scores

Adelaide Strikers 182/5 in 20 overs (Ollie Pope 57, Alex Ross 48; Todd Murphy 2-2, Jack Edwards 2-22)

Sydney Sixers 183/7 in 19.5 overs (Steve Smith 52, Lachlan Shaw 32; Lloyd Pope 2-33, Jamie Overton 2-35)

Sydney Sixers won by three wickets.