BBL 2025–26 Match 3 Preview: Hobart Hurricanes vs Sydney Thunder
The Big Bash League 2025–26 continues with an exciting early-season clash as Hobart Hurricanes welcome Sydney Thunder in Match 3 of the tournament. The contest will be played at the scenic Bellerive Oval in Hobart and marks the opening fixture of the season for both sides.
Hobart begin their title defense at home, while Sydney Thunder arrive with unfinished business after falling short against the Hurricanes in last season’s knockout stage. With both teams eager to start strongly, this fixture promises high-intensity cricket.
Match Information
| Match | Hobart Hurricanes vs Sydney Thunder |
|---|---|
| Tournament | Big Bash League 2025–26 |
| Match Number | 3 |
| Date | Tuesday, December 16 |
| Time | 1:45 PM IST |
| Venue | Bellerive Oval, Hobart |
| Live Broadcast | JioStar Network & JioHotstar |
Pitch Report – Bellerive Oval, Hobart
The surface at Bellerive Oval generally offers something for both batters and bowlers. Fast bowlers are expected to find movement early, especially with the new ball. As the match progresses, batting becomes more comfortable due to the consistent bounce.
Teams that survive the opening overs often manage competitive totals. Captains winning the toss may prefer to bowl first to take advantage of early assistance.
Weather Report
| Condition | Partly Cloudy |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 16°C – 21°C |
| Rain Probability | Low |
| Wind | Moderate breeze |
The weather is expected to remain stable, with minimal chances of rain interrupting play.
Head-to-Head Record (T20)
| Total Matches | Hurricanes Wins | Thunder Wins | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22 | 14 | 8 | 0 |
Probable Playing XIs
Hobart Hurricanes
- Mitch Owen
- Tim Ward
- Nikhil Chaudhary
- Ben McDermott
- Tim David
- Matthew Wade (WK)
- Rehan Ahmed
- Chris Jordan
- Nathan Ellis (C)
- Riley Meredith
- Rishad Hossain
Sydney Thunder
- David Warner (C)
- Sam Konstas
- Cameron Bancroft
- Ollie Davies
- Sam Billings (WK)
- Chris Green
- Nathan McAndrew
- Ryan Hadley
- Reece Topley
- Tanveer Sangha
- Shadab Khan / Tom Andrews
Top Key Players to Watch
| Player | Team | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Tim David | Hurricanes | Power-hitting in middle and death overs |
| Nathan Ellis | Hurricanes | Death-over specialist with the ball |
| Ben McDermott | Hurricanes | Stability at the top order |
| David Warner | Thunder | Aggressive starts in powerplay |
| Reece Topley | Thunder | Early breakthroughs with swing |
Dream11 Fantasy Team – HUR vs THU
Suggested Dream11 XI
- Wicketkeepers: Matthew Wade, Sam Billings
- Batsmen: David Warner, Ben McDermott, Tim Ward
- All-rounders: Tim David, Chris Green, Rehan Ahmed
- Bowlers: Nathan Ellis, Riley Meredith, Reece Topley
Captain: Tim David
Vice-Captain: Nathan Ellis
Match Prediction
Hobart Hurricanes appear better balanced, especially with their strong bowling attack and home advantage. Despite missing a couple of players, their depth and familiarity with conditions give them an edge.
Predicted Winner: Hobart Hurricanes
Disclaimer: Fantasy teams and predictions are based on analysis and should be used for informational purposes only.
