The fierce western derby rivalry is set to ignite a night early, with West Coast Eagles superstar Harley Reid and Fremantle's rising sensation Murphy Reid scheduled for a head-to-head cricket battle. The clash will serve as pre-match entertainment ahead of the crucial Big Bash League Qualifier between the Perth Scorchers and the Sydney Sixers at Optus Stadium.
AFL Stars Step Up to the Crease
In a unique crossover event, the two fan-favourite AFL players will each bowl a delivery to the other during the build-up to Monday night's high-stakes cricket final. This celebrity face-off promises to add an extra layer of excitement for the packed Perth crowd before the main event begins.
This appearance comes after a previous plan for Harley Reid and his Eagles teammate Tom McCarthy to perform the same role was washed out. The duo were slated to be the celebrity bowlers for the tournament opener against the Sixers back on December 14, but a severe storm forced the match to be shortened to an 11-over contest, cancelling their moment in the spotlight.
From Photo Shoot to Good Omen
Earlier in the season, Reid and McCarthy participated in a promotional photoshoot with Perth Scorchers all-rounder Cooper Connolly, donning the team's signature orange. That collaboration may have proven to be a fortunate sign, as the Scorchers finished the regular season on top of the BBL table, putting themselves in prime position to chase a record-extending sixth title.
A victory over the Sydney Sixers in the Qualifier would secure the Scorchers the right to host the BBL Final at Optus Stadium this Sunday, a significant advantage for the Perth-based franchise.
WA's Sporting Royalty
The Reid duo are among the most celebrated athletes in Western Australia. Harley Reid's fame skyrocketed even before he was selected as the No.1 pick in the 2023 AFL draft. He has since lived up to the immense hype, playing 39 games for the Eagles and recently signing a contract extension that will keep him at the Lathlain-based club until at least the end of 2028.
Meanwhile, Murphy Reid announced himself as a future star in the 2025 AFL season. His outstanding debut year for Fremantle, where he played all 24 games, averaged 14 disposals and kicked a goal per match, earned him the prestigious Ron Evans Medal as the AFL's Rising Star. The teenager was originally recruited with pick No.17 in the 2024 draft.
This special sporting crossover highlights the strong community ties between football and cricket in Western Australia, offering fans a thrilling appetiser before the Scorchers' crucial push for another BBL championship.
