Big Bash Tips Matches Three and Four: Short too big for Strikers dominance

• Hobart get key players back

• David returns from ILT20

• Warner out for Thunder

• Short and Ellis players to follow

• Read the team guide HERE

Hobart Hurricanes v Sydney Thunder
Tuesday 16 December, 08.15
TV: Live on Sky Sports

Hobart Hurricanes v Sydney Thunder Big Bash tips

Hobart are the champions and they have recieved a triple boost ahead of their opener. Not only has Tim David returned in time from ILT20 duty but injury doubts over Rehan Ahmed and Matthew Wade have been dispelled. Rehan had returned to the UK for treatment from the Lions tour but he has been named in the squad.

He could form a potentially match-winning combination with bangaldesh's ace all-roudner Rishad Hossain. thunder have their work cut out, particularly as they have not been as fortunate with personnel.

David Warner has been ruled out. This robs Thunder of their most reliable batter and, more importantly, inspirational leader. His captaincy is top class. Chris Green leads instead. 

It is not surprising that Hobart are skinny favourites for the win at 1.664/6. Our top-rated bet is Nathan Ellis to talke most wickets for Hobart. He has a two-year win rate of 31% which is the best of anyone in the team. He shares top billing with Riley Meredith who has a rate of 21% . He really should be clear favourite instead of a chunky 7/24.50. 

Sydney Sixers v Adelaide Strikers
Wednesday 17 December, 08.15
TV: Live on Sky Sports

Sydney Sixers v Adelaide Strikers Big Bash tips

Sixers got off to a losing start in the BBL opener on Sunday when Perth Scorchers stole the points. It was a frustrating day for Sixers who can probably count themselves unlucky.

In a clash shortened to 11 overs because of rain it become the Big Splash instead of the Big Bash. Sixers batted well to set Perth 113 but the hosts gained momenbtum in the chase and it has to be said that it can be much easier for the side batting second when they know what the target is with all resources in a short innings.

The match odds market is shaping up to make this a choice affair and if that holds then we would be all over Sixers against an Adelaide team which is expected to struggle this season. 

Strikers' recrutiment has been slightly strange in bringing in three bowling all-rounders who can bat with diiffering ability. Jamie Overton, Hassan Ali and Luke Wood could all excite but they don't seem to have much point of difference with the ball.

Likewise with the bat and Matt Short is our easy selection. Short has a two-year win rate for top bats at a massive 44% so we have to get involved with Sportsbook's 12/53.40.

Now read our dedicated Ashes section here.