Sydney Thunder vs Hobart Hurricanes: BBL 2025-26 Match 21 Prediction
The upcoming match between the Sydney Thunder and Hobart Hurricanes marks the 21st event of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 season. Set to take place on Saturday, January 3, at the Sydney Showground Stadium, this clash promises to be exciting. Currently, the Sydney Thunder is struggling, having won just one of their five matches. Led by David Warner, they are keen to turn around their fortunes after suffering two consecutive defeats against the Perth Scorchers and Melbourne Stars.
In stark contrast, the Hobart Hurricanes have been performing like reigning champions. With four victories out of six matches, they sit comfortably in second place. A win on Saturday could propel them to the top of the leaderboard, adding to the stakes of this match.
Match Details
- Fixture: Sydney Thunder vs. Hobart Hurricanes
- Date: Saturday, January 3
- Time: 1:45 PM IST
- Venue: Sydney Showground Stadium
- Broadcast: JioStar Network, JioHotstar (App and Website)
Pitch Report
The Sydney Showground Stadium has favored batters, particularly in the first innings. As the match progresses, the pitch typically slows down, making run chases more difficult. In a recent game, the Perth Scorchers posted a high score, and the Thunder struggled to chase it down, highlighting the pitch’s changing conditions. Winning the toss and opting to bowl first may not be the best strategy.
Head-to-Head Record
| Matches Played | Sydney Thunder Wins | Hobart Hurricanes Wins |
|---|---|---|
| 23 | 8 | 15 |
The first fixture between these two teams dates back to January 1, 2012, with the Hurricanes securing the victory. The latest encounter was on January 27, 2025, where the Hurricanes again emerged triumphant.
Predicted Playing XI
Sydney Thunder
- David Warner (Captain)
- Sam Konstas
- Cameron Bancroft
- Matthew Gilkes
- Sam Billings (Wicketkeeper)
- Shadab Khan
- Daniel Sams
- Chris Green
- Nathan McAndrew
- Tanveer Sangha
- Reece Topley
Hobart Hurricanes
- Mitchell Owen
- Tim Ward
- Nikhil Chaudhary
- Ben McDermott
- Macalister Wright
- Matthew Wade (Wicketkeeper)
- Rehan Ahmed
- Chris Jordan
- Nathan Ellis (Captain)
- Rishad Hossain
- Riley Meredith
Key Players to Watch
Nikhil Chaudhary (Hobart Hurricanes)
Nikhil Chaudhary has been the backbone of the Hurricanes’ batting lineup this season. He has amassed 211 runs in six innings, averaging a strike rate of 155.14, with one half-century to his name.
Daniel Sams (Sydney Thunder)
Daniel Sams is expected to be a key bowler for the Thunder. His recent performance included a four-wicket haul against the Perth Scorchers. Though he has been slightly expensive in previous games, his ability to take crucial wickets is vital for his team’s success.
As the stage is set for this anticipated matchup, both teams are eager for a win. Fans can expect a thrilling encounter at the Sydney Showground Stadium.
