The Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 Match No. 29 will see Brisbane Heat take on Sydney Thunder at the Gabba in Brisbane on Saturday, January 10. The match is scheduled to start at 10:30 AM IST, 12:00 AM PST, and 05:30 GMT. Fans can watch the game live on JioStar Network Channels and via the JioHotstar app and website across regions.
Match Details:
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Match: Brisbane Heat vs Sydney Thunder, Match 29, BBL 2025-26
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Date and Time: Saturday, January 10; 10:30 AM IST / 10:00 AM PST / 05:00 GMT
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Venue: Gabba, Brisbane
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Broadcast & Live Streaming: JioStar Network Channels, JioHotstar app and website
Teams Overview:
Brisbane Heat have had a mixed start to their campaign, winning three and losing four of their seven matches. Led by Nathan McSweeney, the team has shown flashes of brilliance but will look to string together consistent performances in the latter part of the season to secure a spot in the playoffs. Their batting unit, featuring experienced campaigners like Matt Renshaw and Max Bryant, combined with promising bowlers like Xavier Bartlett and Matthew Kuhnemann, makes them a well-rounded side capable of challenging any opponent.
Sydney Thunder, on the other hand, have struggled this season, with only one victory in seven matches. Their solitary win, a 34-run triumph, came against a weaker side, highlighting their inconsistent form. Despite being led by the explosive David Warner, the Thunder have struggled with a negative net run rate of -1.255, leaving them at the bottom of the points table and out of contention for the playoffs. The team will be desperate to end their campaign on a positive note, relying heavily on Warner and all-rounders like Daniel Sams and David Willey to make an impact.
Head-to-Head Record:
The two teams have faced each other 23 times in T20s. Brisbane Heat have won 14 encounters, while Sydney Thunder have claimed 8 victories, with one match ending with no result. Their last meeting on December 22, 2025, saw Sydney Thunder record a narrow win, which was their only success this season against the Heat. Historically, Brisbane Heat have had the upper hand in this rivalry, and their consistent record at the Gabba strengthens their advantage.
Pitch Report:
The Gabba has traditionally been a high-scoring venue in the BBL, favoring batters throughout the match. However, pace bowlers can extract movement early on with the new ball, making the opening overs crucial for both sides. As the game progresses, the pitch tends to slow slightly, which can make chasing challenging, especially if a large first-innings total is set. Captains are likely to prefer batting first to take advantage of the initial conditions and put pressure on the opposition during the chase.
Probable Playing XI:
Brisbane Heat: Jack Wildermuth, Lachlan Hearne, Nathan McSweeney (c), Matt Renshaw, Max Bryant, Hugh Weibgen, Jimmy Peirson (wk), Xavier Bartlett, Matthew Kuhnemann, Thomas Balkin, Ollie Patterson
Sydney Thunder: Matthew Gilkes, David Warner (c), Sam Konstas, Sam Billings (wk), Nic Maddinson, Daniel Sams, David Willey, Chris Green, Nathan McAndrew, Tanveer Sangha, Wes Agar
Key Players to Watch:
David Warner has been in exceptional form this year, scoring 130* off 65 and 67* off 51 in his last two innings. His experience and attacking style make him a pivotal figure for the Thunder. For the Heat, Xavier Bartlett is expected to lead the bowling attack with a strong performance, especially in the powerplay overs, having been economical and wicket-taking in recent matches.
Probable Scenarios and Match Prediction:
Given the current form and historical record, Brisbane Heat are expected to have the upper hand. The team’s balanced lineup, combined with their dominance in head-to-head encounters, suggests they can bat first, set a big total, and exert pressure on Sydney Thunder. The Thunder will need a stellar performance from David Warner and contributions from their all-rounders to challenge the Heat. Considering the Gabba pitch and current team forms, the likely outcome points towards the side batting first, Brisbane Heat, clinching the win.
