'Sixers must be fearless, not shy' - Jack Edwards ahead of BBL Challenger

Sydney Sixers all-rounder Jack Edwards has made it clear there is no room for hesitation as his team prepares for a crucial clash in the Big Bash League’s playoff phase. Edwards insists the Sixers must attack with confidence and aggression if they hope to stay alive in their bid to reach the BBL final. 

The Sixers’ road to the final got a setback after they were bundled out for 99 against the Perth Scorchers in the Qualifier, falling 48 runs short on a challenging Perth surface. That loss means the Sixers now head into the Challenger match against the Hobart Hurricanes in a do-or-die situation. 

Speaking ahead of the must-win game, Edwards acknowledged the disappointment of their recent defeat but stressed that the team needs to move on quickly and play with intent. 

“Yeah, we stuffed it up a bit, but we don’t want that to take away from the game we want to play tomorrow night. If it requires us to chase 190 or 200, we’ve got to play fearlessly, so there’s no reason to go shy now,”  Edwards told reporters. 

Edwards further emphasised that the team cannot rely too heavily on Steven Smith, who has been in sublime touch since his return to the BBL. 

“Steve might get out early this game and we’ve got to step up. We started the season slowly but then turned it around... Everyone stood up at different times and I’m sure that will happen again tomorrow night,” he said, underlining the collective responsibility across the batting order. 

Building Momentum in the Knockouts

Edwards has been one of the standout performers for the Sixers this season, contributing with both bat and ball and increasingly featuring as a go-to option in key moments. Smith has also been in red-hot form with the bat. Mitchell Starc is also expected to be fit despite a shoulder injury scare. 

The winner between the Sydney Sixers and Hobart Hurricanes will face the Perth Scorchers in the final of the BBL on January 25.