The struggling Sydney Thunder host the high-flying Hobart Hurricanes in Match 21 of the BBL 2025-26 at Sydney Showground. The Hurricanes, sitting comfortably in second place, have dominated this rivalry, winning their last four encounters against the Thunder. The Thunder, rooted to the bottom of the table with just one win, face an uphill battle to break their poor run of form against a confident and well-balanced Hurricanes side.
Sydney Thunder vs Hobart Hurricanes Win Probability
ST vs HH Batting Tips
Sydney Thunder vs Hobart Hurricanes, 21st Match Details
| Match | Big Bash League 2025-26, Match 21 |
| Date | Saturday, 03 January 2026 |
| Time | 1:45 PM IST | 7:15 PM LOCAL |
| Venue | Sydney Showground Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park |
| Live Streaming (TV) | Sony Sports Network |
| Live Streaming (Mobile) | JioHotstar |
ST vs HH Match Prediction & Analysis (Who Will Win?)
The Hobart Hurricanes are favored to win this encounter and extend their dominance over the Thunder. The Hurricanes’ superior form, balanced team performance, and psychological edge from the head-to-head record make them the clear favorites. While the Thunder possess individual match-winners like Matthew Gilkes and Shadab Khan, their overall inconsistency and poor bowling form are major concerns against a Hurricanes lineup firing on all cylinders.
ST vs HH Head to Head (Last 7)
| ST Won | 01 |
| HH Won | 05 |
| Draw/No Result | 01 |
ST vs HH Teams Preview (Top Players to Watch)
Sydney Thunder
The Thunder’s campaign has been plagued by inconsistency. Opener Matthew Gilkes (165 runs) has been a lone bright spot with the bat. The all-round contributions of Shadab Khan (104 runs, 7 wickets) are vital, but the bowling attack has been expensive, with Daniel Sams and Reece Topley leaking runs. They need a collective, disciplined effort to challenge the Hurricanes.
ST Probable Playing XI-
David Warner (C), Sam Konstas, Cameron Bancroft, Matthew Gilkes, Sam Billings (WK), Shadab Khan, Daniel Sams, Chris Green, Nathan McAndrew, Tanveer Sangha, Reece Topley.
Top Player to watch on- Matthew Gilkes & Chris Green.
Hobart Hurricanes
The Hurricanes are a well-oiled unit with contributions from all departments. All-rounder Nikhil Chaudhary has been sensational with the bat, providing explosive innings. Ben McDermott offers stability at the top. Their bowling is versatile, with the spin of Rishad Hossain being effective, complemented by the pace of Nathan Ellis and the experience of Chris Jordan.
HH Probable Playing XI-
Mitchell Owen, Tim Ward, Nikhil Chaudhary, Ben McDermott, Macalister Wright, Matthew Wade (WK), Rehan Ahmed, Chris Jordan, Nathan Ellis (C), Rishad Hossain, Riley Meredith.
Top Player to watch on- Nikhil Chaudhary & Rehan Ahmed.
ST vs HH Weather & Pitch Report
The pitch at Sydney Showground Stadium has been a batting paradise this season, with the first-innings teams posting 198 and 202 in the two matches played here. It’s a hard surface where runs flow easily, especially once batters are set. A score around 180-185 is considered competitive, but teams have shown they can exceed that comfortably. Bowlers need to rely on variations.
The weather in Sydney is expected to be pleasant and suitable for cricket throughout the day.
ST vs HH Fantasy Teams
- Wicket-keeper: Ben McDermott (HH), Sam Billings (ST)
- Batter: Nikhil Chaudhary (HH), Matthew Gilkes (ST), David Warner (ST)
- All-rounder: Shadab Khan (ST), Mitchell Owen (HH)
- Bowler: Rishad Hossain (HH), Nathan Ellis (HH), Daniel Sams (ST), Reece Topley (ST)
Pro Tip: Always check your fantasy team after the playing 11 is announced. It usually happens about half an hour before the match starts. So, after 1:15 PM (IST), review the playing 11 and compare it with your fantasy team to make sure everything matches.
Disclaimer: These predictions and fantasy tips are based on analysis, research, and the author’s understanding of the game. They are meant for entertainment purposes only. Note: Fantasy gaming should be engaged with responsibly and for fun. We do not endorse or participate in any illegal activities, including real-money gaming that violates Indian law, such as the new Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. We are not responsible for any financial loss.
