Matthew Gilkes powers Sydney Thunder to impressive win over Brisbane Heat in BBL|15

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In Match 9 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025–26, Sydney Thunder produced a commanding all-round display to defeat Brisbane Heat by 34 runs at Manuka Oval. After winning the toss and opting to bowl, the Heat found themselves on the back foot as Thunder’s top order laid a strong foundation that ultimately proved decisive.

Sydney Thunder posted an imposing 193 for 4 in their 20 overs, built around a fluent opening stand between Matthew Gilkes and Sam Konstas. Gilkes was the standout performer, crafting a composed yet aggressive 76 off 48 balls, striking four boundaries and three sixes to keep the scoreboard ticking. At the other end, Konstas played the perfect supporting role with a well-judged 63 off 45 deliveries, peppered with eight fours and showing maturity beyond his years.

David Warner’s brief cameo added early momentum, while the real acceleration came at the death through Sam Billings, who smashed a quickfire 25 off just 11 balls. Daniel Sams chipped in with a handy contribution to ensure Thunder finished strongly. For Brisbane Heat, Jack Wildermuth was the most effective bowler, picking up two wickets for 25 runs, while Matthew Kuhnemann and Shaheen Afridi claimed a wicket apiece but could not stem the flow of runs.

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Chasing 194, Brisbane Heat never quite found the sustained momentum required. Matt Renshaw top-scored with a fighting 43 off 28 balls, while Hugh Weibgen added a steady 30. Max Bryant provided some late fireworks with two sixes, but regular wickets stalled the chase and pushed the asking rate beyond reach.

The turning point came through Sydney Thunder’s disciplined bowling, led superbly by Shadab Khan. The leg-spinner delivered a match-winning spell, finishing with outstanding figures of 4 for 24, ripping through the middle order and breaking the backbone of the Heat innings. Sams offered excellent support with two wickets for 25, ensuring Brisbane Heat were restricted to 159 for 6 at the end of their 20 overs. Gilkes was rightly named Player of the Match for his commanding knock at the top, setting the tone for a performance that underlined Thunder’s credentials as strong contenders in the BBL|15.

First win of the season for Sydney Thunder ⚡#Sydneythunder #BBL2025

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 22, 2025

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