Perth, 14 December 2025:
Cooper Connolly’s blistering half-century guided Perth Scorchers to a five-wicket victory over Sydney Sixers in a rain-reduced opener of the 15th Big Bash League season on Saturday, spoiling the debut of Pakistan star Babar Azam.
Babar, one of the marquee signings of BBL 15, walked out for his maiden Big Bash innings with the Sixers chasing momentum in an 11-overs-a-side contest at Perth Stadium. The right-hander, however, endured a quiet start, scoring two runs off five balls as the Sixers slipped to 15 for two.
After Daniel Hughes was dismissed without scoring, Josh Philippe provided the early spark with an 18-ball 28, while Jack Edwards’ unbeaten 46 off 21 balls lifted the Sixers to a competitive 113 for five. Brody Couch was the pick of the Scorchers bowlers, claiming two for 12.
In reply, Mitchell Marsh departed for a duck, caught by Babar at slips, but Connolly ensured the hosts stayed on course. The left-hander struck 59 off 31 balls, including five sixes, to dominate the chase. Finn Allen and Aaron Hardie offered brief support before captain Ashton Turner finished the job, steering Perth to 117 for five with five balls to spare.
Connolly was named player of the match as the Scorchers opened their campaign with two points, while the Sixers were left to reflect on a promising start that ultimately lacked enough runs and an opening night that did not go to script for their new star recruit.
Scores in brief:
Sydney Sixers 113 for 5 in 11 overs (Jack Edwards 46 not out, Josh Philippe 28; Brody Couch 2-12)
Perth Scorchers 117 for 5 in 10.1 overs (Cooper Connolly 59, Ashton Turner 16 not out)
Result: Perth Scorchers won by five wickets (with five balls remaining).
