Big Bash League 2018-19, Brisbane Heat vs Perth Scorchers: Preview and Predicted Playing XI

After 47 captivating matches in the Big Bash League 2018-19 so far, the next match sees two teams, Brisbane Heat and Perth Scorchers who are out of the reckoning for the play-off spots and are dwelling at the bottom of the pit, play each other on Friday. While Brisbane Heat have been inconsistent in all three facets, the demise of Perth Scorchers' campaign has truly been shocking with a shocking performance in their previous match against the Renegades suggesting their waywardness in the tournament. With the sole aim of avoiding the wooden spoon in their minds, both teams should be able to play without any pressure or fear and provide the thrills in what should be a game filled with entertainment.

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Brisbane Heat

Batting

Although the Heat have three of the most destructive batsmen of the competition in their ranks, their middle order has often let them down at crucial junctures. While the reversal of the very same occurred in their previous match against Hobart Hurricanes, it wasn't enough as a rampant D'Arcy Short made quick work of the target set by them. Against a formidable Perth bowling unit, the likes of Chris Lynn and Max Bryant have to step up to the fore if they are to propel themselves clear of the bottom of the BBL points table.

Bowling

Mujeeb has been quite good for the Heat but all of the five haven't fired in unison which is one of many reasons why they are currently not in the reckoning for a semi-final spot. Josh Lalor has a five-wicket haul to his name but hasn't consistently performed for them and would be hoping for a good game at the Gabba. Cutting has also done well in recent games to warrant a place in the side.

Expected Playing XI

Chris Lynn(C), Max Bryant, Brendan McCullum, Matt Renshaw, Alex Ross, Jimmy Pierson (WK), Ben Cutting, Mujeeb ur Rahman, Josh Lalor, Brendan Doggett and Mitchell Swepson.

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Perth Scorchers

Batting

Despite having a top order filled with potentially world-class talent, Perth have underperformed miserably in the tournament with only Ashton Turner scoring runs on a consistent basis. Turner has in excess of 300 runs to his name and is one to watch out for in the match. Josh Inglis could make a comeback to the side at the expense of Nick Hobson, who hasn't done much in his brief stint in the playing XI.

Bowling

Similar to their batting woes, their bowling has also been inconsistent with Andrew Tye proving to be very expensive in the death overs. Nathan Coulter-Nile has been decent but hasn't picked up the number of wickets he would have liked at the start of the tournament. The surprise package for them has been the emergence of Matt Kelly and Usman Qadir, who have impressed one and all with their ability. They are surely ones to keep an out for the future.

Expected Playing XI

Shaun Marsh, Cameron Bancroft (WK), Ashton Turner, Mitchell Marsh (C), Hilton Cartwright, Josh Inglis, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Andrew Tye, Matt Kelly, Usman Qadir and Jason Behrendorff.