BBL Live: Sydney Sixers vs Hobart Hurricanes in Thrilling Challenger Final
The stage is set for an electrifying encounter in the KFC Big Bash League (BBL) 2026, as the Sydney Sixers prepare to face the Hobart Hurricanes in the Challenger final at the iconic SCG. The winner of this high-stakes match will secure a coveted spot in the championship decider against the Perth Scorchers, scheduled for Sunday night in Perth.
Crucial Absences Loom Over the Match
As anticipation builds, both teams are grappling with significant setbacks. For the Hobart Hurricanes, the absence of their captain, Nathan Ellis, is a major blow. Ellis has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to a hamstring injury, casting a shadow over the team's chances in the crucial final. Adding to the Hurricanes' woes, fast bowler Chris Jordan is also nursing an injury and is a doubt for the match, having not bowled in their previous win over the Melbourne Stars.
On the other side, the Sydney Sixers will miss the services of their star opener, Babar Azam. The Pakistani international has returned to Pakistan to prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup, leaving the Sixers to regroup with Daniel Hughes stepping in at the top order.
The Azam Departure and the Ellis Injury: Controversies and Concerns
Babar Azam's early departure has sparked speculation, with rumors linking it to a controversial disagreement he had with Sixers' star Steve Smith during a match against the Sydney Thunder. Azam, who had been in poor form with the bat, faced calls from experts like Mark Waugh to be dropped. Ultimately, Azam chose to return home, and the Sixers, though initially surprised, accepted his decision without much protest.
Meanwhile, the injury to Nathan Ellis has sent shockwaves through the Hurricanes' camp. Ellis, a key figure for the team, will be missed dearly in the final. The Hurricanes will need to step up and fill the void left by their captain if they are to challenge the Sixers effectively.
Lineups and the Toss
The Sydney Sixers will be led by Moises Henriques, with Steven Smith, Daniel Hughes, Josh Philippe (wicketkeeper), Lachlan Shaw, Jack Edwards, Joel Davies, Ben Manenti, Ben Dwarshuis, Sean Abbott, and Mitchell Starc completing the XI. The Hobart Hurricanes, under the captaincy of Ben McDermott, will feature Tim Ward, Mitchell Owen, Beau Webster, Nikhil Chaudhary, Matthew Wade (wicketkeeper), Rishad Hossain, Will Prestwidge, Riley Meredith, Billy Stanlake, and the potentially available Chris Jordan.
The Hurricanes won the toss and elected to field first, with the first ball being bowled at 7:15 pm AEDT. This decision will likely shape the course of the match, as both teams look to exploit the conditions and set the tone for the final.
Where to Watch the BBL Live Action
Cricket enthusiasts eager to catch all the live action can stream every match of the 2025/26 KFC BBL exclusively on FOX CRICKET, available on Kayo Sports. New subscribers can take advantage of a special offer—join now and get your first month for just $1. Don’t miss out on the excitement as the Sixers and Hurricanes battle it out for a place in the championship decider.
Stay Tuned for Live Updates
Follow our live blog for minute-by-minute updates on the match, including live scores, key moments, and expert analysis. The BBL 2026 Challenger final promises to be a spectacle, filled with drama, tension, and the spirit of cricket. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, this is one match you won’t want to miss.
As the clock ticks down to the start of the match, all eyes will be on the SCG, where cricketing history is set to be made. Will the Sixers capitalize on their opponents' absences, or will the Hurricanes rise to the occasion despite their injuries? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for all the live updates and don’t miss a single moment of this thrilling encounter.
