Big Bash League champions Sydney Sixers lose to Hobart Hurricanes in season opener

The Hobart Hurricanes have claimed a 16-run victory over defending champions Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League season opener.

Hobart’s death bowling came to the fore at Bellerive Oval as they successfully defended an 8-178 total that looked slightly below par.

Riley Meredith (2-29 off four overs) took two crucial scalps in the latter overs after Sixers import James Vince (67 off 41) appeared to have set up the chase.

Meredith, who at times clocked more than 150kph, bowled Jack Edwards (47 off 39) in the 15th over.

He returned in the 18th over with Sydney needing 38 from 18 balls but conceded just four runs and had Daniel Hughes (9 off 12) chopping on.

Vince top-scored for the Sixers, who were cruising at 1-118 in the 14th over when he…