Cricket Big Bash League
Marsh family cricket production line continues with arrival of Austin
Aussie batsman Shaun Marsh and TV journo wife Rebecca welcomed their first child into the world on Friday night.
Australian first as women's big bash goes prime time
![The Women's Big Bash League will be shown in prime time on Network Ten's main channel.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/p/d/p/8/0/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gpdo7k.png/1465288264304.jpg)
Larissa Nicholson It will be the first time a standalone women's sporting match has been shown in prime time on a commercial free-to-air television network's main channel.
Big Bash League: A boost for women; Stars, Gades set for a rollicking week
![Star's Meg Lanning in action last season.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/p/c/y/f/r/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gpcufz.png/1465214802253.jpg)
Jon Pierik The women's Big Bash League is expected to get a major boost when broadcasting details and fixtures for this summer's campaign are unveiled on Tuesday.
Brathwaite mulls multiple BBL offers
![Wanted man: Carlos Brathwaite.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/n/y/c/c/f/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gpah6d.png/1464899202159.jpg)
A Big Bash League bidding war has broken out over West Indies' World Twenty20 hero Carlos Brathwaite.
Gayle opens up about McLaughlin and hits critics for six
![Gayle and Rogers](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/p/2/3/b/6/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gp1yns.png/1464043698182.jpg)
Jon Pierik Chris Gayle has taken aim in his autobiography at Chris Rogers, Ian Chappell and Andrew Flintoff, and opened up about his controversial sideline interview last summer with Mel McLaughlin.
Renegades yet to sign new deal with Etihad
![More than 43,000 attended the Renegades-Stars derby last summer.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/2/k/y/a/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gousia.png/1463216505113.jpg)
Daniel Cherny The Melbourne Renegades are yet to sign a stadium deal for their home games next season.
Perth to stage first Test of summer as CA adds second pink-ball match
![The lights fantastic: Adelaide Oval makes for a spectacular sight on day one of the first day-night Test between ...](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/l/o/9/g/2/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.go02hg.png/1461129376888.jpg)
Chris Barrett A revamp of home international scheduling will see Brisbane lose the first Test and pink-ball matches played against South Africa and Pakistan.
Australian captain and ambassador, Meg Lanning is taking it in her stride
![Leader: Meg Lanning is more than captain of her country](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/n/2/h/n/2/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmng1e.png/1464512636619.jpg)
No one said being captain of the Australian cricket side was easy and at just 23, Meg Lanning is also part of a major push to make it the sport of choice for girls.
Clarke in talks with Sixers for 2016-17
![Former Test captain: Michael Clarke.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/v/1/4/n/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmzlmu.png/1456048756537.jpg)
Chris Barrett Michael Clarke is eager to play in next summer's Big Bash League and has approached the Sydney Sixers.
CA rejects talk of early TV deal
![MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 24: Michael Hussey of the Thunder celebrates with team-mate Shane Watson of the Thunder ...](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/d/5/4/t/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmpkl6.png/1455001792516.jpg)
Chris Barrett Rights to the Big Bash League are tipped to be fiercely contested when cricket begins negotiations with networks but speculation of an early venture into the market has been doused.
Michael Clarke back in business but future unclear
![Unfinished business: Michael Clarke has expressed interest in the Big Bash League.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/l/r/2/1/z/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmi2t9.png/1454358749932.jpg)
Tom Decent Michael Clarke has reignited his career by declaring he will turn out for his beloved grade club Western Suburbs, but his movements thereafter are far from set in stone as Big Bash clubs - including the Melbourne Stars - come to terms with his sudden change of heart.
Cricket
Osborne's WBBL medal missing after celebrations
![Sydney Thunder spinner Erin Osborne (right) has lost her WBBL medal.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/k/o/5/r/g/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmet9b.png/1453893061158.jpg)
David Polkinghorne Sydney Thunder allrounder Erin Osborne not expecting T20 World Cup call-up despite WBBL final heroics.
Contract rush for BBL targets
![Mitchell Johnson: On the franchises' radar for next season's Big Bash League.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/l/1/h/u/4/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmefmj.png/1453789020364.jpg)
Convince David Warner to return to Big Bash League cricket? Lure Mitchell Johnson out of retirement? These are the questions the eight Big Bash League franchises face when the contract window for next summer's competition opens on Wednesday.
Thunder tyro wants a baggy green
![Green team: Chris Green celebrates after dismissing Kevin Pietersen during the BBL final.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/e/b/b/g/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gme6uc.png/1453784848934.jpg)
Chris Barrett Young star on the rise, British passport, spending his winters in England? You've heard this story before. But Chris Green is not Steve Smith.
KP turns up heat on England selectors
![Kevin Pietersen is loving the Big Bash League.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/d/4/y/n/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmduex.png/1453775199636.jpg)
The polarising batsman claims to be in career best form and vows to "score runs and help the youngsters" if he is brought in from his international exile for the T20 World Cup in March.
Sydney Thunder WWBL skipper pushes Erin Osborne for T20 World Cup
![Erin Osborne of the Thunder bowls](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/c/k/e/8/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmds8w.png/1453932567116.jpg)
Daniel Lane Sydney Thunder's triumphant Women's Big Bash League skipper Alex Blackwell said her team's spin bowler Erin Osborne made a late push for selection in the Australia T20 World Cup side with her brilliant performance in the domestic T20 final on Sunday.
Blizzard wants Canberra to be Thunderstruck
![Cricket ACT director of coaching Aiden Blizzard in action for the Sydney Thunder this season.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/c/m/g/6/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmdfnc.png/1453706446025.jpg)
Lee Gaskin Fresh off helping the Sydney Thunder claim its inaugural Big Bash League title, Cricket ACT director of coaching Aiden Blizzard has called for the champions to bring a game to Canberra next season.
Thunder captain Hussey bows out a true winner
![Champion finish: Thunder captain Michael Hussey acknowledges the MCG crowd after being dismissed in his final innings on ...](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/d/o/e/u/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmdny5.png/1465349301595.jpg)
Daniel Lane Triumphant Sydney Thunder captain Mike Hussey admitted that even though he always planned to take his team to a Big Bash League title he cannot believe the dream came true on Sunday night.
Sydney Thunder's Jacques Kallis to decide if he'll be back for BBL06
![Jacques Kallis & Brett Lee.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/1/2/e/c/c/u/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmd9ig.png/1453721814406.jpg)
Daniel Lane After adding a Big Bash League winner's medal to his collection of titles, Jacques Kallis said he was still to decide upon his future with the Sydney Thunder.
WBBL FINAL: Sydney Thunder win in a thriller
![Happy days: Thunder batters Claire Koski and Lauren Cheatle celebrate after winning the Women's Big Bash League final ...](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/c/z/z/0/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcxnu.png/1453673925192.jpg)
Daniel Lane  The inaugural WBBL final between Sydney's the Sixers and Thunder lived up to its promise of a hard-fought battle between two teams that knew each other's games intimately with the Thunder winning the title at the MCG in a heart-stopper.
Coach Fleming proud of Stars' performance in BBL final loss to Thunder
![Key wicket: David Hussey of the Stars celebrates taking the wicket of Usman Khawaja during the Big Bash final.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/d/5/9/3/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmd54c.png/1453666292334.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Stephen Fleming says he was satisfied with Melbourne Stars' performance in the Big Bash final, and bullish about future success.
Usman Khawaja guides Sydney thunder to nailbiting BBL title victory
![Match-winning effort: Usman Khawaja top scored in the Thunder's victory.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/d/4/w/u/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmd2db.png/1454404405739.jpg)
Daniel Lane Sydney Thunder's man of the moment Usman Khawaja maintained the rage, and the run spree by guiding his team to a three wicket victory over the Melbourne Stars at the MCG.
Khawaja plays down contentious LBW decisions in final
![Rare form: Sydney Thunder's Usman Khawaja.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/d/5/5/z/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmd560.png/1453666337601.jpg)
Daniel Cherny Usman Khawaja has played down the pair of contentious LBW appeals he survived during his man-of-the-match innings in Sydney Thunder's Big Bash League final win over the Melbourne Stars.
Golden brothers fight to death for silverware
![MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 23: David Hussey of the Melbourne Stars and Mike Hussey of the Sydney Thunder pose ...](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/d/5/4/u/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmd1zg.png/1453666359855.jpg)
Daniel Cherny The Big Bash League final was in the balance. Dave Hussey had just claimed the catch which brought his brother to the crease, with Sydney Thunder 2-94 in the 11th over chasing 177 to win.
Khawaja's class again crucial as Thunder beat Stars to claim BBL title
![You beauty: Sydney Thunder batsman Ben Rohrer celebrates his match-winning six that delivered the side their first BBL title.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/d/4/y/5/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmd4tt.png/1453641461635.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Kevin Pietersen masterclass trumped by one from Usman Khawaja, as Sydney Thunder complete stunning rise from Big Bash chumps to champions.
Live BBL final: Stars v Thunder
![Kevin Pietersen in action for the Stars.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/c/f/0/8/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcupl.png/1453637158055.jpg)
Tom Decent Season five of the Big Bash League comes down to this - the Stars and the Thunder going head to head at the MCG.
BBL finals unlikely to change despite hoodoo for top-placed teams
![The Strikers enjoyed success in the regular season but were knocked out in the semi-final.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/8/m/j/a/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcwyg.png/1453612853523.jpg)
Jesse Hogan The failures of the top-placed teams in finals across all five seasons of the Big Bash League is unlikely to trigger a change in structure to create a second chance for these teams.
Brisbane Heat captain Chris Lynn named BBL player of tournament
![Brisbane Heat captain Chris Lynn launches one of his seven sixes in the innings that destroyed the Melbourne Stars' ...](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/6/9/7/9/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcyb0.png/1453611868415.jpg)
Brisbane Heat batsman Chris Lynn has been named as the Big Bash League's player of the tournament.
Live WBBL final: Thunder v Sixers
![Mate against mate: Sydney Thunder captain Alex Blackwell and Sixers counterpart Ellyse Perry lead their teams into ...](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/c/r/k/2/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcrkj.png/1453615079119.jpg)
Tom Decent Live coverage as the Sydney Thunder square off against city rivals the Sixers in the inaugural WBBL final at the MCG.
The Big Bash League team of the year
![Key man: Usman Khawaja made Daniel Lane's team of the year, despite limited appearances.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/b/e/s/c/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcook.png/1453592088385.jpg)
Daniel Lane Playing the role of selector when it comes to naming the all-star team from the fifth edition of the Big Bash League isn't an easy task, as Daniel Lane discovered.
Sydney Thunder's McKay holds no grudge but he wants to down the Stars
![Clint McKay.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/c/h/o/p/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcgj3.png/1453560248464.jpg)
Daniel Lane Sydney Thunder's strike bowler Clint McKay said he harboured no grudges against Sunday's Big Bash League final opponents, the Melbourne Stars, despite being released by them at the end of last season after he was barely given a go last summer.
Cricket
Blizzard Thunders back to Canberra talent
![Aiden Blizzard will bring lessons back to Canberra after his stint with the Sydney Thunder.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/c/m/g/3/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmclxp.png/1453560270889.jpg)
Lee Gaskin Cricket ACT director of coaching Aiden Blizzard wants to bring lessons back from Sydney Thunder's resounding charge to the Big Bash final to help Canberra's next generation of cricket stars.
Converting BBL fans to Test lovers will take a generation, say Cricket Australia
![Brotherly love: David and Michael Hussey with the BBL trophy ahead of Sunday's final between the Stars and Thunder.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/c/n/y/8/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcfcc.png/1453623916435.jpg)
Andrew Wu Somewhere in the MCG stands on Sunday there will be a kid at the cricket for the first time; a teenager, wowed by the colour, buzz and big hitting, finally giving the game a chance; or perhaps a mother joining her husband and sons to see for herself their fascination with the game.
Thunder rolling in with potent weapons
![A brilliant unbeaten century by Usman Khawaja helped guide the Sydney Thunder to the final.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/b/e/s/c/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcmcl.png/1453592088385.jpg)
Jesse Hogan For Melbourne Stars to win their first Big Bash League title, on Sunday night at the MCG, they will need to shackle not only the country's form batsman, Usman Khawaja, but three of this Sydney Thunder teammates who have nearly 50,000 international runs between them.
Cricket
Osborne seeks final revenge on Meteors teammate
![Flying the flag: Sydney Thunder all-rounder Erin Osborne is one of five ACT Meteors players in Sunday's WBBL final at ...](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/c/k/e/8/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmckah.png/1453932567116.jpg)
Zac Lowe Erin Osborne will keep an eye out on Sunday for an opportunity to get even with her ACT Meteors teammate Sara McGlashan​.
Superheroes: Sixers and Thunder prepare for ultimate battle
![Mate against mate: Sixers captain Ellyse Perry and her Thunder counterpart Alex Blackwell.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/c/j/g/g/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmci02.png/1453560541540.jpg)
Daniel Lane Forget the upcoming Batman v Superman movie as the ultimate showdown between two superheroes because Sunday's WBBL final between the Thunder and Sixers at the MCG has the hallmarks of a battle between foes who know each other's strengths and weaknesses intimately.
Khawaja's horror flight makes BBL pressure a laugh
![A brilliant unbeaten century by Usman Khawaja helped guide the Sydney Thunder to the final.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/b/e/s/c/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcgqw.png/1453592088385.jpg)
Daniel Lane Keith Miller, the World War II fighter pilot who was also Bradman's star all-rounder, once described pressure as 'having a Messerschmitt up your arse'.
Pietersen cheekily suggests Australia call up Khawaja before Stars face him
![Kevin Pietersen says Usman Khawaja "fully deserves, as Australia's No.1 batsman at the moment, to play [on Saturday]."](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/c/f/i/i/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcfcf.png/1453473473787.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Kevin Pietersen has joked his looming Big Bash League final opponent Usman Khawaja should immediately be called up for the national team.
Big Bash League: dots and spaces punctuate Stars win over Scorchers
![On his way: Melbourne Stars teammates celebrate with Daniel Worrall after his dismissal of Michael Carberry.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/c/f/3/k/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcem4.png/1453505405832.jpg)
Greg Baum In the vast stands, it was the spaces between the seats that told the tale. A crowd of just over 30,000 turned up, far fewer than the recent 80,000-plus for the Melbourne derby.
Stars break Scorchers hoodoo to earn home BBL final on Sunday
![Shining Star: Dan Worrall celebrates after taking last the Scorchers wicket to seal semi-final win.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/c/f/3/j/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcf1b.png/1453469677511.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Melbourne Stars are finally on the cusp of living up to their lofty expectations, earning hosting rights for Sunday's Big Bash League final by ending the dominant run of Perth.
WBBL: Sixers set up all-Sydney final with crushing win over Hobart
![Eye on the finals: Ellyse Perry.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/2/8/0/o/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcagn.png/1453455874244.jpg)
Daniel Lane When the Sydney Sixers arrived in Melbourne on Thursday ahead of their semi-final match against the Hobart Hurricanes, they were buoyed by hearing the news that the Sydney Thunder - their arch rivals - had made their way through to the final.
'Old duck' Sthalekar will be back for more
![Sydney. Lisa Sthalekar from Cricket NSW, who retired after the World Cup this year and as an executive member of the ...](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/k/6/n/9/y/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcdnr.png/1453455940702.jpg)
Daniel Lane Sydney Sixers WBBL coach Ben Sawyer said he'll do everything within his power to ensure veteran Lisa Sthalekar is a member of the team next season.
Sthalekar excels as Sixers seal derby WBBL final
![Big hitting: Alyssa Healy smashed 32 off 22 balls as the Sixers cruised into the WBBL final.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/c/9/9/w/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmc9hm.png/1453452820450.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Sydneysiders had rare cause to compliment the Melbourne weather on Friday when rain held off long enough at the MCG for the Sydney Sixers to extend their astonishing Women's Big Bash League winning streak to nine to earn a berth in Sunday's final against Sydney Thunder.
Usman Khawaja brings his lightning bolts to the Thunder
![Final fling: Khawaja celebrates his fast century.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/b/f/o/u/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmbztl.png/1453451927955.jpg)
Daniel Lane "There's some really good talent out there at the moment. All I can do is keep doing well for my team, put my head down, score runs and hopefully the selectors will take note and choose me. If they don't, I love playing for the Thunder so it's a win-win situation.
BBL semi-final: Melbourne Stars v Perth Scorchers
![Kevin Pietersen](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/7/2/q/2/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmcd2g.png/1453450830609.jpg)
Follow live coverage as the Melbourne Stars host Perth Scorchers. The winner earns a spot in the Big Bash League final.
Khawaja steers Thunder to Big Bash final
![A brilliant unbeaten century by Usman Khawaja helped guide the Sydney Thunder to the final.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/b/e/s/c/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmbf3b.png/1453592088385.jpg)
Daniel Lane Sydney Thunder opener Usman Khawaja hit a glorious unbeaten 104 to help the one-time basketcase of the BIg Bash into the final with victory over the Strikers.
The revolution has arrived: six televised women's cricket matches in 11 days
![Breaking down barriers: The Women's Big Bash League has arrived with a bang with six matches televised in 11 days.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/a/r/1/4/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmapmx.png/1453382362419.jpg)
Jesse Hogan The watershed season for women's cricket will end in fitting fashion, with six matches broadcast live on free-to-air TV in 11 days, as the end of the Women's Big Bash League meets the start of the Southern Stars series against India.
Understudy Evan Gulbis takes centre stage to take Stars to semi-finals
![Grabbing his chance: Evan Gulbis hits out for an unbeaten 61 against Brisbane Heat.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/9/a/8/e/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmbb05.png/1453373044755.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Little-known cricketer played a big part in helping the Melbourne Stars' win a semi-final berth, with hosting rights.
Meteors spinner helps Sixers into semi-finals
![Feeling confident: Angela Reakes of the Sixers hits a six during the Women's Big Bash League match against the Sydney ...](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/b/4/r/6/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmar45.png/1453372449255.jpg)
Lee Gaskin ACT Meteors spinner Angela Reakes says the Sydney Sixers can claim the WBBL title.
Blackwell hopes for all-Sydney WBBL grand final
![Two champs: NSW Breakers Alex Blackwell with Dragons legend John Raper.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/k/l/n/y/t/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmbbiq.png/1453369277416.jpg)
Daniel Lane Sydney Thunder captain Alex Blackwell said she wants to play against cross-town rivals, the Sixers, in the WBBL's inaugural grand final after the Thunder won their way through to the decider with an eight run win over the Perth Scorchers.
Live BBL semi-final: Adelaide Strikers v Sydney Thunder
![Jono Dean of the Adelaide Strikers.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/a/1/2/q/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmbbz0.png/1453376499411.jpg)
Tom Decent Live coverage of the first semi-final in the 2015-2016 BBL season. Adelaide Strikers are hosting Sydney Thunder.
Langer bracing for rain as Scorchers, Stars renew semi-final rivalry
![Pragmatic: Scorchers coach Justin Langer says Perth will only have themselves to blame if rain ruins their BBL finals hopes.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/h/v/k/u/n/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmb86r.png/1453360663254.jpg)
Jesse Hogan If bad weather helps Melbourne Stars overcome their semi-final hoodoo against Perth you will not hear Scorchers coach Justin Langer whingeing about that.
Sixers rise from bottom to the top
![Eye on the finals: Ellyse Perry.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/2/8/0/o/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmb3c7.png/1453358802742.jpg)
Daniel Lane Sydney Sixers WBBL coach Ben Sawyer credited a positive energy that stemmed from his players having nothing to lose for their being on the verge of a grand final berth.
Perth Scorchers veteran Brad Hogg fights to keep dream alive
![Evergreen Brad Hogg is hoping to keep his BBL dream alive.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/l/t/k/e/s/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmb3tf.png/1453355063466.jpg)
Perth Scorchers spinner Brad Hogg admits the upcoming BBL finals series could make or break his wish to extend his Twenty20 career.
KP commits to Stars for two more years
![Kevin Pietersen of the Melbourne Stars.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/2/l/4/v/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gmahvv.png/1453327686447.jpg)
Ronny Lerner English superstar Kevin Pietersen has signed a new two-year contract with the Melbourne Stars that will tie him to the MCG-based Big Bash League outfit until the end of the 2017-18 season.
Kiwi new boy Nicholls says he is part of Thunder
![Happy days: The Sydney Thunder are hoping for further success in the Big Bash League finals.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/7/f/6/9/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gma7y8.png/1453274947459.jpg)
Daniel Lane New Zealand international Henry Nicholls has been a member of the Sydney Thunder for only a week, but on the eve of the team's historic semi-final appearance against the Adelaide Strikers he spoke of the need for the Big Bash League's one-time battlers to perform on the big stage with the passion expected of his skipper Michael Hussey and foundation player, Usman Khawaja.
Dean ready to fire in Strikers' semi-final
![Adelaide Strikers batsman Jono Dean.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/l/d/l/u/o/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm9qzy.png/1453294095149.jpg)
Chris Dutton Jono Dean is primed set off his own fireworks in the Big Bash League semi-finals on Thursday night.
'The haters, I thank you even more:' Chris Gayle's parting words for Australia
![Shane Watson may open the batting with Chris Gayle.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/7/0/o/6/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm9h87.png/1455076796379.jpg)
Beau Donelly Chris Gayle has launched a stinging attack on critics and the media in a long-winded rant on Instagram in which he takes aim at "past and present" cricketers he claims failed to support him in the aftermath of his infamous post-inning interview.
Lack of strike-bowlers the reason why Renegades again miss finals
![Hands on heads: Nate Rimmington and Nathan Hauritz.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/l/x/i/y/y/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm9dqf.png/1453208570546.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Melbourne Renegades will pore over every aspect of their eight matches in a bid to understand why they have again missed the finals. But even before that is completed their key flaw is glaring: strike-bowlers.
No decision yet on whether blaster Gayle will return to Renegades
![The Renegades' Chris Gayle hits a six during the Big Bash League match against Adelaide on Monday.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/8/m/i/t/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm9bg4.png/1453252590419.jpg)
Jesse Hogan There will be no imminent decision on whether Chris Gayle, Melbourne Renegades and, most significantly, Cricket Australia are all amenable to the peerless hitter reprising his position in next season's Big Bash League.
Thunder BBL success up there with World Cups, Ashes for departing Hussey
![Fond farewell: Mike Hussey says goodbye after his last home game ever.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/3/q/2/m/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm96oa.png/1453543250917.jpg)
Andrew Wu Michael Hussey has won a World Cup and been part of an Ashes whitewash but he would rate success in the Big Bash League with Sydney Thunder as being up there with those achievements.
Stars confident of hefty MCG crowd for Friday's BBL semi-final
![Evan Gulbis of the Stars hits a six against the Brisbane Heat at the MCG last Friday.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/9/a/8/e/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm9a1p.png/1453246194150.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Two years after attracting a paltry crowd to a home Big Bash League semi-final, Melbourne Stars are confident Friday night's attendance at the MCG will be notable for the right reasons.
Hauritz retires with good memories outnumbering the bad
![Nathan Hauritz says he'll look back fondly and proudly at his career.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/z/s/2/x/a/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm8z0q.png/1453174372488.jpg)
Jesse Hogan The player used most by Australia to plug the gaping spin void left by Shane Warne until Nathan Lyon's emergence, has quietly ended his 15-year playing career.
League boss eyes big finish to Big Bash
![The MCG scoreboard shows the record attendance at Saturday's BBL game.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/l/y/9/d/0/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm8pj5.png/1453155344113.jpg)
Rob Forsaith Anthony Everard is hoping this week shows just how big the Big Bash League has become in its breakthrough season, when the Melbourne-Perth final goes head-to-head against the Australian Open tennis just across the road.
Gayle's record-pace half-century in vain as Renegades' season ends
![Rapid: Chris Gayle hits out for BBL side the Renegades.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/8/m/d/o/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm8mg3.png/1455746832406.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Chris Gayle signed off his Big Bash League season, and perhaps his Australian career, in devastating fashion by blasting a half-century at world-record pace on Monday night.
Hopes for Gayle return after dazzling finish to controversial season
![Cameron White of the Renegades signs his autograph for fans.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/8/m/t/8/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm8mse.png/1453124174700.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Cameron White hopes Chris Gayle will rejoin him at Melbourne Renegades next season after his bludgeoning half-century on Monday night gave his team a chance to pinch a Big Bash League semi-final berth.
Behrendorff's back rules him out of WT20 contention
![Jason Behrendorff has been in solid form with Perth Scorchers.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/l/v/f/q/4/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm8hgz.png/1453119283903.jpg)
Lee Gaskin Canberra fast bowler Jason Behrendorff's dreams of playing at Twenty 20 World Cup are over.
Chris Gayle equals fastest ever Twenty20 half-century for Melbourne Renegades
![Going big: Chris Gayle blasted a quick but deadly innings on Monday night.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/8/m/8/9/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm8m83.png/1453146521989.jpg)
Matt Bungard Yuvraj Singh has some company at the top of the list for fastest ever half-centurions in Twenty20 cricket.
Cricket Australia confirms 'pitchsiders' have been evicted from Big Bash matches this summer
![No room for suspicious activity: Fans of the Big Bash enjoying the action.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/8/l/r/2/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm8dpd.png/1453142933260.jpg)
Tom Decent So-called "pitchsiders" are continuing to infiltrate Big Bash matches by sneaking laptops and mobile phones into grounds.
Chris Lynn hopes national T20 return is the start of much bigger things
![Big hit: Chris Lynn has been in hot form for the Brisbane Heat in the BBL.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/8/g/d/8/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm88hm.png/1453100913191.jpg)
Phil Lutton The in-form Brisbane Heat batsman wants to take his chance on the big stage as he continues to chase his dream of playing Test cricket.
Scorcher Andrew Tye vomits his way to Australian T20 side
![PERTH, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 08: Andrew Tye of the Scorchers looks on from the bench during the Big Bash League match ...](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/8/g/s/t/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm8g3g.png/1453098593217.jpg)
They say blood, sweat, and tears are the best way to reach the top. But for Perth Scorchers paceman Andrew Tye, it also took a whole lot of vomit.
Waugh urges ICC to save West Indies and preserve Test cricket
![Calling for action: Steve Waugh believes the ICC should be doing more to help the West Indies and Test cricket.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/8/2/a/t/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm8dhj.png/1453257020000.jpg)
Daniel Lane Steve Waugh has compared the International Cricket Council's apparent lack of action to drag the West Indies out of their downward spiral to the scenario of rugby allowing the "All Blacks to wither on the vine."
Live: Renegades v Strikers
![Even a win might not be enough for the Renegades.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/8/f/6/3/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm8evs.png/1453097137454.jpg)
To make the semi-finals, the Renegades need to win by at least 38 runs or, if they chase, within 16 overs.
Why cricket great Steve Waugh learnt to play the reverse sweep at 50
![Steve Waugh is about to complete the Captain's Ride From Sydney to Byron Bay.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/k/s/7/i/s/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm8azs.png/1453094172587.jpg)
Daniel Lane It was a sight that would have made cricket traditionalists cringe: former Australian Test captain Steve Waugh teaching young players the nuances of the reverse sweep.
Shaun Tait shocked but stoked to get another opportunity for Australia
![Shaun Tait: Delighted to have received a call-up to the Australian team for the Twenty20 matches against India.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/8/7/j/b/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm85bn.png/1453088676739.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Shaun Tait typically avoids answering phone calls from unfamiliar numbers. He is unsure why he deviated from that policy, but is relieved he did given what was conveyed: a shock return to the Australian team, just in time to audition for the World Twenty20
Lyon gets his white-ball chance
![Nathan Lyon has been called into the one-day squad.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/7/w/o/8/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm7wf3.png/1453075404505.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Australian selectors have rewarded good form in the Big Bash League, with maiden call-ups for Travis Head and Andrew Tye and recalls for Chris Lynn, Nathan Lyon and Shaun Tait for next week's three Twenty20s against India.
Sixers keen on meeting public demand for derby tickets at SCG
!["It's quite a challenge for them [the Trust] because they've got 38,000 members": The crowd looks on during the derby.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/7/u/4/x/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm7m74.png/1453026292106.jpg)
Tom Decent Sydney Sixers general manager Dom Remond says further discussions need to take place with the SCG Trust to ensure public demand for tickets is not compromised by some members who do not fill seats at Big Bash matches.
Sydney Sixers sneak into WBBL finals thanks to last-ball heroics by McGlashan
![The Sydney Sixers are into the WBBL finals after defeating the Hobart Hurricanes.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/7/s/8/4/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm7qo5.png/1453015646775.jpg)
Tom Decent New Zealand international Sara McGlashan has propelled the Sydney Sixers into the Women's Big Bash League finals courtesy of a thrilling last-ball strike.
Renegades calm despite needing big win against Strikers
![Chris Gayle: Looking to dominate in the Renegades' must-win game against the Strikers.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/2/j/z/7/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm7rhi.png/1453013372605.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Melbourne Renegades are hopeful Monday night's must-win match against Adelaide is the platform for Chris Gayle to transform what has been a decent on-field contribution from him into a dominant one.
Thunder's semi-final hopes rest on Renegades
![One more game? Thunder captain Michael Husssey is hoping to prolong his time in the lime green with a semi-final ...](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/7/f/7/3/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm7fye.png/1453002841773.jpg)
Tom Decent Sydney Thunder players will have their eyes glued to the television screen on Monday evening in the hope the Adelaide Strikers account for the Melbourne Renegades otherwise their hopes of a maiden finals appearance could be dashed.
Thunder knock off Sixers at packed SCG
![Dre Russ](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/7/g/j/k/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm7dbk.png/1452973484040.png)
Tom Decent After four demoralising and soul-searching years, the Sydney Thunder have done everything they can to secure themselves a finals spot with a 46-run victory in front of a domestic record crowd.
Stars beat Scorchers to ensure home semi-final
![Stars' top-scorer David Hussey goes the cross-bat route.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/7/f/u/m/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm7g1o.png/1452953847496.jpg)
The Melbourne Stars secured a home semi-final in dramatic fashion after thrashing the Perth Scorchers by 52 runs in Saturday night's BBL clash at the WACA Ground.
Bracken says variety the spice of a 'closer's' life
![Spicing things up: Nathan Bracken shone at the death for Australia.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/5/n/w/w/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm5iyo.png/1452950627982.jpg)
Daniel Lane Nathan Bracken, regarded as one of one-day cricket's great 'death' bowlers, said the only way bowlers in the Big Bash League would survive their pressure-packed role is by "wanting" to do the job.
Bailey pushes case for World T20 recall
![Running hot: Dynamic Australian George Bailey.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/5/3/h/x/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm7bev.png/1452933572890.jpg)
Jesse Hogan George Bailey's mighty form across the opening two one-dayers against India has strengthened his claims to earn a recall to the Twenty20 he used to captain for the World Twenty20 in March.
Pattinson to miss Renegades' game
![Resting: The Renegades may struggle without James Pattinson.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/7/c/8/f/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm7c7b.png/1452934408205.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Australia's decision to rest two of their best young fast-bowlers, Josh Hazlewood and James Pattinson, has dented the hopes of Big Bash League finals aspirants who had been due to regain one of them.
Sixers propose idea to strengthen club rosters
![Novel proposal: The Sydney Sixers want to be able to ''pair'' Test players with another quality signing.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/2/z/f/u/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm77ro.png/1452924789410.jpg)
Daniel Lane The Sixers are trying to thrash out a deal with Cricket Australia that would allow each Big Bash League franchise to pair Australia's internationals with a like-for-like player.
Behrendorff absence a boost for Stars
![Key absentee: Jason Behrendorff has been in solid form with Perth Scorchers.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/l/v/f/q/4/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm6qv8.png/1453119283903.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Melbourne Stars' hopes of achieving the toughest task in the Big Bash League, winning at the WACA Ground on Saturday night, have been helped by Perth losing key fast-bowler Jason Behrendorff to injury.
WBBL Sydney derby could attract record crowd
![Eye on the finals: Ellyse Perry.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/2/8/0/o/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm6qr8.png/1453343119841.jpg)
Tom Decent While a record crowd is expected for the men's Big Bash derby at the SCG on Saturday, the women's fixture a few hours earlier will also go close to breaking the record for the highest domestic crowd for a female match.
Head to enter IPL auction after meagre Delhi deal cancelled
![Big pay-day? Travis Head of the Adelaide Strikers could be in line for big money in the Indian Premier League.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/l/y/9/r/p/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm6lpc.png/1452863830616.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Travis Head has suddenly emerged as one of the most coveted players at next month's IPL auction, with the 22-year-old no longer tied to his existing meagre deal with Delhi.
Why Mike Hussey thought he was never good enough
![On his way out: Mike Hussey is close to the end of his glittering career.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/l/z/1/g/v/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm6gvr.png/1452894092408.jpg)
Daniel Lane Should it come as a surprise that one of Australia's most driven cricketers, Michael Edward Killeen Hussey, will rise above the sentiment of possibly playing in his final game of cricket when the Sydney Thunder play the Sydney Sixers in a must-win game to instruct his players to give "100 percent" to each ball.
Five sixes in five balls: Big Bash star goes berserk
![Big smash: Chris Lynn sends another one to the stands.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/6/a/v/u/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm69yd.png/1452863686536.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Chris Lynn insists he has no fear of facing spin in the subcontinent after blasting five consecutive sixes in the Big Bash League on Thursday night to make his World Twenty20 selection bid even more compelling.
International cricket still king for TV ratings
![The Tonk dinkus](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/1/1/w/v/l/q/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm5lj6.png/1452775452358.jpg)
Chris Barrett As successful as the Big Bash League has been this season it still doesn't touch the television numbers drawn for Australia's home internationals.
Heat threaten Stars' finals bid
![Samuel Badree of the Heat celebrates with his teammates after taking the wicket of Rob Quiney of the Stars.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/6/9/g/w/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm69j6.png/1452780902511.jpg)
Jesse Hogan It takes something extraordinary to upstage a batsman who clubs five consecutive sixes.
Cricket
Adelaide Striker Greg West has last laugh after fine Big Bash debut
![Greg West, left, and Tim Ludeman celebrate the wicket of Daniel Christian on Wednesday night.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/5/y/t/e/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm5k9t.png/1452769771636.jpg)
Jon Tuxworth It's the mystery which set social media alight - just what did Adelaide Striker Greg West say to Hobart Hurricane Michael Hill on Wednesday night to annoy him so much?
Strikers confirmed as hosts for first semi-final
![Adil Rashid (right) has played a major role in the Strikers' success thus far.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/6/8/c/t/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm689w.png/1453543327332.jpg)
The Adelaide Strikers will host the first Big Bash League semi-final on January 21, regardless of whether they finish first or second, Cricket Australia says.
Lanning's happy with finals run
![Stars captain Meg Lanning is happy with where her team finds itself.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/1/z/v/s/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm65a4.png/1452762301110.jpg)
Jesse Hogan Melbourne Stars captain Meg Lanning is comforted that despite the potential logjam for a Women's Big Bash League finals position that her team is not reliant on other results going their way to qualify.
Cricket
Cricket ACT 'would love to have it all'
![Canberra's Jason Behrendorff is a chance to make his debut for Australia on his home ground, Manuka Oval.](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/l/y/z/o/3/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm539m.png/1452760484024.jpg)
David Polkinghorne Chief executive Cameron French looks to bring the Big Bash League, Tests and ODIs cyclically to Canberra.
Sydney Thunder star Andre Russell ready to whip up a storm at SCG
![SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 07: Andre Russell of the Thunder celebrates the wicket of Michael Klinger of the Scorchers ...](/web/20160620135843im_/http://www.theage.com.au/content/dam/images/g/m/1/i/4/8/image.related.thumbnail.90x60.gm64jt.png/1452760139082.jpg)
Daniel Lane "I'm always happy to entertain people, so I'm ready to do whatever, whenever ... I'm 'Dre Russ', so I have to be ready at all times!"