Big Bash League: Temperatures set to soar for blockbuster final between Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers

Steve Smith and his Sydney Sixers will have to brace themselves to get scorched in two different ways when they call on Optus Stadium for Tuesday’s Big Bash League qualifying final.

Not only will the Aussie batting great and his teammates have to face the might of the table-topping Scorchers, but they’ll also have to navigate WA’s blazing weather conditions for the blockbuster clash.

Perth is set for a forecast top of 39C on Tuesday, with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting the mercury will be around that maximum mark by the time the match begins at ‘The Furnace’ at 4.30pm.

It will still be a balmy 33C by the scheduled match completion time of 7.30pm, handing the WA franchise a home-ground advantage over their opponents who rarely have to deal with soaring temperatures.

Optus Stadium will provide free sunscreen at medical rooms and selected retail outlets throughout the venue, while fans will be in place at the Western Podium to help patrons keep their cool.

There will be a shade sail still in place on the Southern Oval for the Fan Zone, while those attending are being encouraged to wear a hat and bring a water bottle.

It is expected the clash between the top-of-the-table Scorchers and their arch-rivals the Sixers will sell out, with the victor earning the right to host the final on Sunday.