A mind-boggling hundred from Craig Simmons, his second of this season, helped visitors Perth Scorchers to a five-run win in their rain-curtailed Big Bash League semi-final against Sydney Sixers.
The left-handed opener smashed 112 runs from just 58 balls as the Scorchers posted a daunting total of 193-5 at the SCG. His innings of 112 included four fours and 11 sixes.
A rain delay prolonged the innings break which meant that the hosts’ target was reduced to 54 runs from five overs, which they were unable to chase it down as Jason Behrendorff and Pat Cummins bowled two crucial overs to set up a title-clash with Hobart Hurricanes who defeated Melbourne Stars – the overwhelming favourites. With this win, Perth have now qualified for Champions Leagua 2014.
Chasing a stiff target of 54 in five overs, Sydney’s overseas star duo Michael Lumb (1) and Ravi Bopara (0) were both caught while trying to smash Behrendorff over the ropes. The wily seamer would have had three wickets to his name from his only over had substitute fielder Hilton Cartwright not dropped Nic Madinson at deep cover.
Nic Maddinson, who was on five when that chance went down, went to hammer 36 from 16 balls, but he could not get his team over the line when needed 17 from the final over.
Earlier, Sydney Sixers won the toss and put Scorchers in to bat on a flat wicket. Sixers soon regreted their decision as Simmons went on a carnage.
However, Pert were watchful initially as it took them 13 overs to pass the 100 mark, but once they did so the scoring rate was picked up spectacularly, with Simmons needing amassing 50 runs from just 16 balls in the second part of his century.
Adam Voges was the other main contributor with a solid 31 before being bowled by Mitchell Starc.
It looked like Simmons‘ blinder could be go in vain as rain threatened to force an abandonment, which would have given Sixers a spot in the final as they finished higher in the league table then their counterparts Perth. With IPL auction next week watch out for Craig Simmons, folks!
