Sydney Sixers and Hobart Hurricanes face off in a high-stakes Challenger clash with a place in the Big Bash League final on the line. The winner earns the right to meet Perth Scorchers in the summit clash, while the loser sees their campaign end.
Match details follow in brief.
The match is Sydney Sixers vs Hobart Hurricanes.
The tournament is the Big Bash League 2025-26 Challenger.
The date is Friday, January 23, 2026.
The venue is Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney.
The start time is 1:45 PM IST, 1:15 PM Pakistan Standard Time, and 8:15 AM GMT.
Team overview and form guide
Sydney Sixers arrive in the Challenger after a setback against Perth Scorchers in the Qualifier. That loss exposed a few middle-overs concerns, but the Sixers remain one of the most balanced sides in the competition. Their top order has delivered consistently, and the bowling unit still carries depth and experience. Playing at the Sydney Cricket Ground gives them familiarity with conditions, and the pressure of a knockout has rarely unsettled this group in past seasons.
Hobart Hurricanes enter with momentum after a commanding Knockout win over Melbourne Stars. Their campaign has improved steadily, with the batting order showing flexibility and the bowling attack finding rhythm at the right time. Confidence is clearly on their side, and the Hurricanes will look to challenge the Sixers early, especially with the new ball, to disrupt their plans.
Key players to watch
Steven Smith stands out as the most influential batter in the contest. He has scored 210 runs in four matches at an average of 70 and a strike rate above 170. His ability to control the innings without slowing the scoring rate gives Sydney Sixers a strong foundation in pressure games.
For the bowling unit, Jack Edwards has emerged as a decisive factor this season. With 17 wickets, he sits among the leading wicket-takers of the tournament. His control in the middle overs often dictates the tempo of the innings, making him a crucial weapon against an aggressive Hurricanes lineup.
Hobart Hurricanes will once again rely on Ben McDermott’s leadership and batting at the top. Beau Webster’s all-round contribution adds balance, while Riley Meredith and Billy Stanlake provide pace and bounce that can trouble batters under lights.
Head-to-head record
Sydney Sixers and Hobart Hurricanes have faced each other 22 times in T20 cricket. Hobart Hurricanes hold a narrow edge with 11 wins, while Sydney Sixers have won nine matches. Two games ended without a result. Their most recent meeting took place on January 11, 2026, adding freshness to this rivalry and offering both sides recent reference points.
Pitch report and conditions
The Sydney Cricket Ground generally supports chasing sides, with consistent bounce and value for shots once batters settle. Teams batting second often find it easier to pace the chase, especially under lights. Bowlers must remain disciplined, as short or wide deliveries can quickly shift momentum. Spinners may find some assistance later in the innings, but control remains the key factor on this surface.
Probable playing XIs
Sydney Sixers probable XI: Jordan Silk, Steve Smith, Josh Philippe as wicketkeeper, Moises Henriques as captain, Mitchell Starc, Jack Edwards, Lachlan Shaw, Ben Dwarshuis, Joel Davies, Ben Manenti, Sean Abbott.
Hobart Hurricanes probable XI: Tim Ward, Mitchell Owen, Beau Webster, Ben McDermott as captain, Nikhil Chaudhary, Matthew Wade as wicketkeeper, Chris Jordan, Rishad Hossain, Riley Meredith, Billy Stanlake, Will Prestwidge.
Live streaming and broadcast details
The match will be broadcast live in India on the JioStar Network channels, with live streaming available on the JioHotstar app and website. Viewers in Pakistan can watch the match through official BBL broadcast partners and their respective digital platforms. In the United Kingdom, the game will be available on licensed sports channels with streaming access through official apps. Australian audiences can follow the action on local sports networks and their official streaming services. Global viewers can access live coverage through regional broadcasters and approved digital platforms carrying Big Bash League rights.
Match prediction and analysis
This Challenger clash shapes up as a contest of composure versus momentum. Sydney Sixers carry experience, home advantage, and a strong top order capable of setting or chasing competitive totals. Hobart Hurricanes bring confidence, recent form, and a bowling attack that can apply early pressure. Given the SCG’s tendency to favour chasing teams, the toss may play a significant role. Overall, the side batting second holds a slight edge, but execution in key phases, especially the middle overs, is likely to decide the outcome.
