Sydney Showground Stadium is set to host an important Big Bash League clash as Sydney Thunder take on Hobart Hurricanes in Match 21 of the BBL 2025-26 season. With the league stage approaching its midpoint, both sides arrive with very different momentum and objectives.
The Thunder are searching for consistency after a difficult start, while the Hurricanes are pushing hard to strengthen their position near the top of the table. Saturday’s encounter could prove decisive in shaping the standings over the next week.
Team Form & Match Context
Sydney Thunder have struggled to build rhythm this season, managing only a single victory from their opening fixtures. Back-to-back defeats have placed pressure on the side, making this home game a must-respond occasion. With senior players in the lineup, the Thunder will be keen to deliver a disciplined all-round performance in front of their supporters.
Hobart Hurricanes, meanwhile, have enjoyed a far steadier campaign. The defending champions have shown balance with both bat and ball, winning the majority of their matches so far. A victory here could see them climb to the top of the points table, adding extra motivation to an already confident unit.
Match Details
| Match | Sydney Thunder vs Hobart Hurricanes, Match 21 |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, January 3, 2026 |
| Time (IST) | 1:45 PM |
| Venue | Sydney Showground Stadium |
| Live Telecast | JioStar Network Channels |
| Live Streaming | JioHotstar App & Website |
Sydney Showground Stadium – Pitch Report
The surface at Sydney Showground Stadium generally favors batters early in the innings, with good bounce allowing stroke play during the powerplay. As the match progresses, the pitch tends to slow down, making timing more difficult for chasing sides.
Teams batting first have often benefited here, as run-scoring becomes challenging under lights. Captains may prefer setting a target rather than chasing on this surface.
Toss Impact
Winning the toss could play a key role in this contest. Based on recent matches at the venue, batting first appears to be the safer option. A solid opening stand and a strong powerplay could put the chasing team under early pressure.
- Batting First Advantage: High
- Chasing Difficulty: Increases after 12 overs
Weather Report
| Condition | Details |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 22°C – 26°C |
| Rain Probability | Very Low |
| Humidity | Moderate |
| Wind | Light breeze |
Head-to-Head Record (T20)
| Matches Played | Sydney Thunder Wins | Hobart Hurricanes Wins |
|---|---|---|
| 23 | 8 | 15 |
Probable Playing XIs
Sydney Thunder
David Warner (C), Sam Konstas, Cameron Bancroft, Matthew Gilkes, Sam Billings (WK), Shadab Khan, Daniel Sams, Chris Green, Nathan McAndrew, Tanveer Sangha, Reece Topley
Hobart Hurricanes
Mitchell Owen, Tim Ward, Nikhil Chaudhary, Ben McDermott, Macalister Wright, Matthew Wade (WK), Rehan Ahmed, Chris Jordan, Nathan Ellis (C), Rishad Hossain, Riley Meredith
Last Five Matches Form
| Team | Match 1 | Match 2 | Match 3 | Match 4 | Match 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney Thunder (THU) | L | L | W | L | L |
| Hobart Hurricanes (HUR) | L | W | W | W | L |
Last Five Matches Results
Sydney Thunder have managed only one win in their previous five outings. Despite posting a strong total against Brisbane Heat, inconsistency with the bat has resulted in multiple defeats.
| Team | Result | Score | Opponent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney Thunder (THU) | L | 131/10 (17.3) | Perth Scorchers |
| L | 132/1 (14) | Melbourne Stars | |
| W | 193/4 (20) | Brisbane Heat | |
| L | 151/10 (19.1) | Sydney Sixers | |
| L | 181/6 (19.5) | Hobart Hurricanes |
Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Tips
| Category | Players |
|---|---|
| Top Picks | David Warner, Ben McDermott, Daniel Sams |
| All-Rounders | Shadab Khan, Rehan Ahmed |
| Bowlers | Riley Meredith, Nathan Ellis, Tanveer Sangha |
| Wicketkeepers | Sam Billings, Matthew Wade |
Captain Choice: David Warner
Vice-Captain Choice: Daniel Sams
Expected Scores
- First Innings Total: 169+ runs
- Powerplay Score: 46+ runs
Match Prediction
Considering home conditions, urgency for points, and the advantage of batting first at this venue, Sydney Thunder appear well-placed to stage a turnaround. If their top order capitalizes early and the bowlers maintain control in the middle overs, the hosts could emerge victorious.
Predicted Winner 🏆: Sydney Thunder
Match Win Probability
| Factor | Sydney Thunder | Hobart Hurricanes |
|---|---|---|
| Recent Form (Last 5 Matches) | Low | Strong |
| Head-to-Head Record | 8 Wins | 15 Wins |
| Batting Depth | Balanced | Very Strong |
| Bowling Attack | Effective at Home | Consistent |
| Home Advantage | Yes | No |
| Toss Impact | High | Medium |
| Pitch Conditions | Favourable | Neutral |
| Pressure Handling | Moderate | Strong |
🏆 Predicted Winner
Considering the home conditions, pitch behaviour, and the urgency to bounce back, Sydney Thunder hold a slight edge in this contest despite Hobart Hurricanes’ stronger recent form.
Overall Win Probability
| Team | Win Probability |
|---|---|
| Sydney Thunder | 52% |
| Hobart Hurricanes | 48% |
