The Perth Scorchers have made a key change to their bowling attack for their highly anticipated Boxing Day Big Bash League fixture against the Hobart Hurricanes at Optus Stadium.
Beardman Steps Up for National Duty Absence
With star fast bowler Jhye Richardson selected for Australia's fourth Ashes Test against England, the Scorchers have turned to promising 20-year-old quick Mahli Beardman. Coach Adam Voges has recalled the young paceman to bolster the home side's attack for this critical encounter.
Beardman has had a brief taste of BBL action this season, recording figures of 0-28 from his four overs during the Scorchers' rain-affected opening victory over the Sydney Sixers.
Teams Seek Crucial Second Win in Perth
Both sides enter the match with identical records, each hunting for their second victory of the BBL season. The Hurricanes won the toss and elected to field first, looking to exploit any early conditions.
The Scorchers will be particularly eager to bounce back in front of their home crowd after a disappointing loss last week. They fell victim to the largest successful run chase in Big Bash history against the Brisbane Heat.
Weather Clears for Optus Stadium Spectacle
Despite concerning weather in the lead-up, with rain across the Perth metropolitan area on Friday and the Optus Stadium pitch taking a drenching hours before play, the skies cleared in time. The improved conditions set the stage for the Scorchers' second home match of the campaign.
The Perth Scorchers have named the following XI: Mitch Marsh, Finn Allen, Cooper Connolly, Aaron Hardie, Ashton Turner, Laurie Evans, Nick Hobson, Ashton Agar, Joel Paris, Brody Couch, and Mahli Beardman.
The Hobart Hurricanes will line up as: Mitch Owens, Tim Ward, Nikhil Chaudhary, Ben McDermott, Mac Wright, Tim David, Rehan Ahmed, Chris Jordan, Nathan Ellis, Rishad Hossain, and Riley Meredith.
This Boxing Day blockbuster promises high stakes as both franchises aim to build momentum in the middle of the BBL season. All eyes will be on how the young replacement Beardman handles the pressure on the big stage.
