Tanveer Sangha lights the fuse ahead of first-ever BBL final between Sydney Thunder and Sydney Sixers

Tanveer Sangha has started the build-up to the first ever all-Sydney BBL final early by claiming the Sixers are vulnerable heading into Friday’s clash at the SCG.

Sydney Thunder leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha has lit the fuse ahead of Friday’s all-Sydney final, claiming the Sixers are vulnerable without the “big dogs” in their batting line-up.

The 23-year-old was one of the best for the Thunder in their gutsy win against the Stars, finishing with figures of 2-31 – including the key wicket of Glenn Maxwell – as his team successfully defended a modest total of 135.

The victory sets up the first ever BBL final between the Sixers and Thunder, and Sangha is adamant that all the pressure is on their cross-town rivals when they take to the SCG on Friday night.

“It’s their home ground, they’re expected to win,” Sangha said. “They usually beat the Thunder. I think we’re going to turn it around this year.

“I think we’re never in the Sixers’ shadow. I think they’re always scared to face us. When we (played) them here, we definitely showed we were the better team, even though they just got over the line. So, I’m looking forward to doing it again.”

Sangha celebrates the key wicket of Glenn Maxwell with Thunder skipper David Warner. Picture: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

The Thunder were able to upset the Stars’ rhythm on Wednesday by taking consistent wickets and keeping their economy rate in check. Sangha believes replicating that performance will be key, especially against a Sixers’ batting line-up feeling nervous after their last hit out.

The Sixers were in all sorts early in their batting innings during the Qualifier against Hurricanes on Tuesday night. They fell to 3-5 inside the first three overs, and despite Jordan Silk and Kurtis Patterson’s best efforts, Hobart’s target always appeared just out of reach.

Sangha believes that collapse will be front of mind for the Sixers and something the Thunder can exploit – especially with Steve Smith no longer in the side due to his Test commitments.

Sixers captain Moises Henriques was one of three wickets to fall inside the first three overs in their final against the Hurricanes. Picture: Steve Bell/Getty Images

“Knowing their big dogs aren’t there, there’s no one really scoring runs for them,” Sangha said.

“I think we saw in the Hurricanes game they played down in Hobart, I think early wickets can really damage them. And I think if we can try and do the same thing, get early wickets and put pressure on them, I think they can be vulnerable.

“It’s going to be blockbuster. I think it could be the best game of the tournament. I’m looking forward to facing the Sixers and beating them at their home ground.”

The win over the Stars was only Sangha’s fourth game of the season as he managed a side strain injury. However, he’s clearly in the Thunder’s long-term plans having recently re-signed with the club until the end of BBL17.

But the tweaker has always got his sights set on even loftier goals. While nothing would beat helping lead the Thunder to a second Big Bash title, a debut baggy green would be just as sweet – even if he hasn’t heard from selectors since Matthew Kuhnemann’s injury.

While Sangha’s Test ambitions remain, the leg-spinner is solely focused on helping the Thunder win another BBL title. Picture: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

“Possibly (thought I was a chance for a call-up),” Sangha said. “I think when I went (to the subcontinent) last time, I did pretty good, so I think we’ll see what happens.

“I think it’s (Kuhnemann’s) non-bowling hand, so hopefully he’s actually all good.

“If they want a wrist spinner, there are a couple of us bowling really nicely. If I can get my body right and put a couple of good performances domestically in Shield cricket, I think I’ll really want to push for it as well. But finger spin, we know the data’s there, it’s so dangerous and accurate and that’s what (the selectors) are looking forward to.

“It’s awesome (to be back from injury). It’s great to contribute in any game you play, especially getting the key wickets.

“I’m honestly focusing on the Big Bash because we’re doing really well right now and I think if we can win a title, there’s nothing better than that.”