Smith guides Sixers past Renegades after Finch century

Steve Smith helped the Sydney Sixers to a seven-wicket win over the Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League on Saturday.

Aaron Finch (109 off 68 balls) had led the struggling Renegades to 175-5 from their 20 overs at the SCG.

But after Josh Philippe's 61, Smith ensured the Sixers moved back into second in the table.

The Australia star made an unbeaten 66 off 40 balls as the Sixers reached their target with eight balls to spare.

FINCH PUNISHES SIXERS

Finch gave the Sixers chances when he was on 39 and 40, dropped by Jordan Silk and Philippe.

Another chance went begging when Finch was on 62, dropped by Ben Dwarshuis – who would face further punishment.

Bowling the next over, Dwarshuis was taken for 22 runs by Finch, including a six and three fours.

Finch went on to notch his eighth T20 century to guide the Renegades to what looked like a competitive total.

Another for Aaron Finch. Triple figures up, this is just play time now! #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/U6krpOoLN2

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 25, 2020

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VINCE UNLUCKY

James Vince and Philippe helped the Sixers make a fine start to their chase, reaching 49 without loss after five overs.

But Vince's unfortunate dismissal would slow the Sixers down.

Will Sutherland dropped a return catch off Philippe, but the ball ricocheted onto the stumps at the non-striker's end, running Vince out for 22 off 13.

Could James Vince BE any more unlucky?? #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/fJDssdx2FA

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 25, 2020

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SMITH STEPS UP

That allowed Smith to take over.

A reverse sweep for four from Smith off Mohammad Nabi (1-27) in the 15th over helped the Sixers need 45 off the final five overs.

A Big Bash for Steve Smith. Here's one of our favourites from earlier #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/hdKHaHT48w

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 25, 2020

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Smith almost went in the next over, with Nathan McSweeney producing a brilliant piece of fielding on the boundary, catching the ball as it was flying for six, but throwing it back as he fell over the rope.

This guy Nathan McSweeney with some excellent work on the boundary! #BBL09 pic.twitter.com/lFZV2Bxhyk

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 25, 2020

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But that would be the Renegades' last chance as Smith took control to lead the Sixers to victory.