Australia’s pace superstar Mitchell Starchas revealed his excitement and hunger as the Sydney Sixers gear up for the Big Bash League (BBL) final, insisting he and Steve Smithstill have plenty left to give despite a packed schedule. 

Starc was part of the Sixers’ convincing Challenger win that knocked defending champions Hobart Hurricanes out of the competition, taking two key wickets to help seal the victory and set up a mouth-watering showdown. The win means the Sixers will face Perth Scorchers, a rivalry that is now one of the fiercest in BBL history.

Travelling across the country with multiple games in quick succession without much rest has not slowed down the veteran left-armer, who recently wrapped up a long Ashes series. Reflecting on his body and mindset, Starc had plenty to say.

“Four overs to go … It’s going to be 20 hours on a plane this week with four games. Steve and I have got another game left in us, so it’s all good … the two old boys have got a final to play, and then we’re feet up,” he said after the win.

Starc also fondly recalled his first Big Bash League experience, where he starred as a 21-year-old in the Sixers’ inaugural title win against the same opponents at the WACA.

Now, 15 years after the famous victory, he and his long-time teammates hope to draw on that experience.

“Steve, ‘Moey’ (Moises Henriques) and I were there year one, so I have fond memories of that first year, obviously winning the title over in the West against Perth.

Maybe, we can call on some of that … obviously playing them a few nights ago, we know what we’re in for,” Starc was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.

The left-arm pacer was an integral part of Australia’s thumping Ashes 2025-26 victory over England, finishing the series as the highest wicket-taker and the Player of the Series. After wrapping up the Ashes, the 35-year-old, along with Smith, had promised to try and win the BBL for the Sixers. 

Sydney Sixers vs Perth Scorchers finale, yet again

The BBL 2025-26 finale is set to be yet another clash between two heavyweights, as Sunday's encounter will be a staggering sixth BBL final between the two teams.

They were also the finalists of the inaugural edition of the league. 

The Perth-based team is the most successful in Big Bash history, with a record five-titles to their name, whereas the Sydney Sixers have won the title three times. 

The Perth-based team is the most successful in Big Bash history, with a record five-titles to their name, whereas the Sydney Sixers have won the title three times.