Peter Siddle says Adelaide Strikers’ two-straight BBL losses are nothing compared to torment of bushfire victims
Star Adelaide Strikers bowler Peter Siddle says while Sunday’s loss to the Sydney Sixers was disappointing, it seems insignificant when compared to what bushfire-affected Australians are facing currently.
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Peter Siddle concedes boom Sydney Sixers keeper-batsman Josh Philippe proved the difference at Coffs Harbour, but Australia’s bushfire crisis overshadows concern at successive losses for the Adelaide stalwart.
The Strikers have slipped to fourth following defeats to Sydney Thunder and Sixers with man-of-the-match Philippe’s unbeaten 83 off 53 balls decisive in a seven-wicket win on Sunday.
“That is T20, you get on a bit of a roll, get a bit of luck and he made us pay,” said Siddle of Philippe.
“The class that he showed is rather than throw it away when it wasn’t quite going, he stuck in there and brought it home for them.
“A class knock.”
Philippe put on 72 in 8.3 overs with impressive opener partner Justin Avendano (47 off 33) then 51 with skipper Daniel Hughes (24).
The Strikers must find a way to quell Philippe, second on the BBL aggregate with 256 runs at 51, ahead of Wednesday’s return bout at Adelaide Oval.
Improved fielding leads the agenda.
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Sandgroper Philippe was given reprieves on 26 by Cameron White then 50 by Michael Neser with the clean hitter smacking Harry Conway for six next delivery.
“We cost ourselves not taking our chances early on, any chase when they have wickets in the shed it makes it easier for the batting side,” said Siddle.
Star Sixers seamer Josh Hazlewood was immaculate on return from a hamstring tear, claiming Australian one-day teammate Alex Carey (29 off 31).
South Australian leg-spinner Lloyd Pope (2/41) was instrumental in restricting the Strikers to 6-176.
“We didn’t do ourselves any favours, we got it to the last over, got it close, left a few runs out there and couldn’t hold those catches, which cost us in the end,” rued Siddle.
Onfield loss has been put in perspective by tragedy off it insists 67-Test paceman Siddle, who retired from international cricket after the Boxing Day Test.
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“We think we go into battle on the field but it is nothing what they are approaching each day. I am proud to be Australian,” said Siddle in deference to heroic firefighters.
Siddle has started a Wickets for Wildlife fundraising campaign with fellow vegans Kane Richardson and Adam Zampa.
The trio will donate $200 for every wicket they take this BBL season to animals affected by bushfires ravaging the nation.
“It is something that is close to my heart, Zamps and Richo,” said Siddle.
“We are all pretty close, vegans, have always done a lot for animals over the years.
“What is going on at the moment is devastating for humans and animals.
“Over half a billion animals have been killed by the fires.
“Hopefully more people get on board, follow my links and Instagram.
“There has been some good donations already. Any small bit counts.”