The Melbourne derby is unarguably one of the biggest games of the Big Bash League and the recently-concluded match between the Melbourne Stars and Renegades was confirmation. Over 68,000 fans attended Sunday’s derby at the MCG, and all witnessed an absolute thriller as the Renegades managed to win a nail-biter that went to the last over.
While the visitors were sitting in a rather comfortable situation with just 46 to get off 36 balls, the hosts pulled it back and were seemingly dictating terms. However, Renegades skipper Will Sutherland kept his calm and saw his side through. With 13 to get from the final over, the all-rounder hit two sixes in the first five balls to seal the deal.
During an exclusive interview with Arvind Kalyana Krishnan for CricBlog right after the game, Will Sutherland drew light on his recent form and the thought of playing T20Is for Australia.
Further on, Sutherland also appreciated the support from the fans. He acknowledged that the Renegades have got a lot of support this season due to the presence of Mohammad Rizwan, and appreciated the presence of the Pakistani keeper-batter. The Renegades skipper concluded by saying that he was hopeful of giving more wins to the fans this season.
Will Sutherland interview: Focus is on the Renegades rather than possible T20I debut in the future
Below is the entire conversation between Will Sutherland and Arvind Kalyana Krishnan for CricBlog:
Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: Will with the way you’ve been playing of late, do you think that an international game in T20s is around the corner?
Will Sutherland: I never think too much about that stuff. Big Bash is the only thing that’s on my mind…..So if that does come along the way (T20I debut), that’s awesome, but yeah, I love playing for the Renegades and I just want to win games for the Renegades.
Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: In this season, we have seen that the Renegades have got a lot of support from the fans in Melbourne and everywhere else, so what are your feelings towards your fans?
Will Sutherland: No doubt a few of them are Mohammad Rizwan fans (laughs). It’s been awesome to have him in the group but yeah, you can definitely feel the Big Bash building back up a little bit over the last few years and the crowds have shown that and probably the viewership also shows that on TV as well so that’s awesome that Australian cricket is in a good spot. I can feel the Renegades support whenever I’m out there and hopefully we can give them a few more wins like this one (Melbourne Stars vs Melbourne Renegades game at the MCG).
After a terrific Sunday of Big Bash cricket, the action moves to Coffs Harbour where Sydney Sixers take on Brisbane Heat in an important match. It is a Sixers home game as the SCG is hosting the fifth Ashes Test.
The Sixers currently sit outside the top four with a game in hand over the Heat, who are currently fourth. So, there is a lot riding on this game as the playoffs race heats up.
Led by Sean Abbott, Babar Azam and Joel Davies, Sydney Sixers started 2026 in style by beating the Melbourne Renegades on New Years’ Day. They were disciplined with the ball, limiting the Renegades 164, before Babar and Joel Davies helped the Sixers reach the target without too much fuss.
Brisbane Heat won in opposite fashion. They looked gone while chasing 196 against the Stars, before an incredible partnership between Max Bryant and Xavier Bartlett sealed another stunning Heat chase this season.
Today, the question is whether their batting lineup can overcome the disciplined Sixers attack. Also, can their promising young attack trouble the Sixers?
BBL 2025/26 24th Match: SIX vs HEA Possible Playing XIs
Kane Richardson is back in the Sixers squad. However, they may persist with the same XI that prevailed over the Renegades.
Sydney Sixers: 1. Daniel Hughes, 2. Babar Azam (OS), 3. Josh Philippe (wk), 4. Moises Henriques (c), 5. Jordan Silk, 6. Joel Davies, 7. Jack Edwards, 8. Ben Dwarshuis, 9. Sean Abbott, 10. Ben Manenti, 11. Hayden Kerr
Brisbane Heat have named an unchanged squad. They may also stick with the same XI.
Brisbane Heat: 1. Jack Wildermuth, 2. Colin Munro (OS), 3. Nathan McSweeney (c), 4. Matt Renshaw, 5. Max Bryant, 6. Hugh Weibgen, 7. Jimmy Peirson (wk), 8. Xavier Bartlett, 9. Matthew Kuhnemann, 10. Thomas Balkin, 11. Oli Patterson
International Sports Stadium Coffs Harbour Pitch Report and Weather
There have been four completed BBL matches at Coffs Harbour. The average first innings score is 167.75, with the chasing team winning three times.
Pace bowlers have taken 18 wickets in the BBL here at an average of 32.67 and economy of 8.48. Spinners have picked up 15 wickets at an average of 19.93 and economy of 6.95.
Inclement weather has affected previous matches in Coffs Harbour, and there is a chance of thunderstorms according to the Bureau of Meteorology. However, conditions are expected to be clear.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for SIX vs HEA 2025/26: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top wicket-keeper picks:
Josh Philippe has struck 157 runs in four innings on this ground, including a score of 83*.
Key batter picks:
Babar Azam has two fifties in his past three innings. The opener could enjoy the easier-paced surface at Coffs Harbour.
Matt Renshaw has the second-most runs this season (243) at an average of 40.50 and strike rate of 163.08. He may also be called on to bowl at a ground where spinners have enjoyed some success.
Top all-rounder picks:
Jack Wildermuth has a strike rate of 155.74 against the Sixers. He also has six wickets in five innings at an average of 17.17 and economy of 6.44.
Jack Edwards has taken the second-most wickets this season (10) at an average of 13.10 and strike rate of 10.80.
Key bowler picks:
Sean Abbott, who won player of the match in the last game, has an outstanding 32 wickets in 16 innings against the Heat.
Ben Dwarshuis also has good numbers against the Heat with 26 wickets at an average of 20.27 and economy of 8.50.
Xavier Bartlett bowls in the crunch overs and can also contribute with the bat. He has dismissed Babar Azam once in four balls (six runs).
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
Spinners are having a say in this BBL and Matt Kuhnemann took figures of 2/19 in his only match at Coffs Harbour to date.
Joel Davies is an excellent differential pick. The all-rounder batted superbly against the Renegades and he’ll be called on to bowl a few overs at Coffs Harbour.
Nathan McSweeney looked in magnificent touch in the last match for his 43. The Heat captain has scored 217 runs at an average of 43.40 and strike rate of 121.91 against the Sixers.
Thomas Balkin has taken five wickets in three matches this season and has varied his pace nicely.
Matt Renshaw career record against Sydney Sixers: 11 inns, 254 runs, avg. 28.22, SR 141.90.
Xavier Bartlett vs Josh Philippe: 22 balls, 24 runs, one wicket.
Xavier Bartlett vs Babar Azam: Four balls, six runs, one wicket.
Sean Abbott vs Matt Renshaw: 26 balls, 50 runs, no wickets.
BBL 2025/26 24th Match: SIX vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today
Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams.
Option 1:
BBL 2025/26 24th Match: SIX vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today
Option 2:
BBL 2025/26 24th Match: SIX vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today
BBL 2025/26 24th Match: SIX vs HEA Match Prediction – Who will win?
This has the makings of an excellent contest. With a long batting lineup and good bowling attack, the Sixers will prevail.
Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes for Dream11 free contests in line with the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. The stats and writer’s views are in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.
All statistics and matchups in this article have been verified by ESPNcricinfo, Bigbashboard and Cricmetric.
Australia have come in for criticism regarding their team selection for the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).
The hosts made the call not to play spinner Todd Murphy for the second-straight match, but this decision raised eyebrows as the SCG surface had 5mm of grass, half that of the maligned MCG pitch.
Instead, Australia played two all-rounders in Cameron Green and Beau Webster, with the latter coming in for Jhye Richardson. As a result, Steve Smith’s team went into the Test with just three frontline bowlers – a defensive move rarely seen made by an Australian team.
Despite early wickets, it was clear Australia misread the conditions. The SCG pitch did not have as much in it as Australia thought. Perhaps the hosts were spooked by what happened at the MCG with Cameron Green as the fourth bowler not working on day one.
Green, who is having a difficult series, struggled for control, conceding 57 in eight wicketless overs as Joe Root (72*) and Harry Brook (78*) looked very comfortable on an SCG pitch that was good for batting.
The two combined for an unbroken 154 run-partnership to leave England in a good position at 211/3. Only 45 overs were possible as rain and bad light intervened, but the fact the game didn’t restart even when the rain stopped was cause for significant frustration.
Why cricket should be ashamed over daylight robbery at the SCG.
Fans unhappy with Australia team selection and bowling performance on day 1 at the SCG
Green copped the brunt of the criticism on another disappointing day, as the call to not play a spinner also garnered plenty of attention. Australia also bowled poorly as a unit, offering plenty of width and easy runs to Root and Brook.
“For Todd Murphy to miss selection for the fifth Test in Sydney, something has gone seriously, seriously wrong — whether pitch-related, selection-based or otherwise,” wrote Fox Sports journalist Will Faulkner on X (formerly Twitter).
“Gotta say, makes me sad when @CricketAus don’t pick a spinner in a Test match. Could have been a great chance to give the next generation a golden opportunity…” wrote Ryan Campbell, former Western Australia cricketer and Netherlands coach.
For Todd Murphy to miss selection for the fifth Test in Sydney, something has gone seriously, seriously wrong — whether pitch-related, selection-based or otherwise.#Ashes
Gotta say, makes me sad when @CricketAus don’t pick a spinner in a Test match. Could have been a great chance to give the next generation a golden opportunity….🤔🤔
Steve Smith 100% misread the pitch. Should've played Todd Murphy in this test. Seeing how flat this surface is and half a day gone due to rain I don't see either side winning this test match. 'Draw' is the only expected result from this test. The Ashes series is already done…
Why is Green playing alongside Webster lol. All we heard since Webster was dropped was, “we can’t play 2 all rounders”, but when it’s Green’s turn to go out of the team for Beau we can play 2 all of a sudden?
When captains stop backing spinners, the game loses a dimension. Green pitches. No variation. Same-same attacks. We’re officially at crisis point — and it’s changing how Test cricket is played in Australia.
I love Test cricket as much as anyone but this series has deflated me a bit (the style of cricket not the scoreline). Australia pick Green AND Webster but no frontline spinner as the SCG. A bit depressing if you ask me #Ashes
Worst selected side i have seen in over 40 years i have never seen only 3 front line bowlers selected with no spinner. All because we have so many batsmen out of form. Would of been a great time to have played murthy richardson and kellaway but not to be.
Play will begin earlier at 10:00am on day two. Australia will turn to their three frontline quicks in Mitchell Starc, Michael Neser and Scott Boland for early wickets as England will look to build on their promising position.
While the Ashes were decided in Adelaide, there are still World Test Championship points on offer.
MI Cape Town (MICT) will be against the Paarl Royals (PR) in the 13th match of SA20 2025-26
MI Cape Town lost their last match against the Paarl Royals by one run. They are at the bottom of the table with three defeats and a rained-out game after four matches and will be itching to register their first win of the season.
Their batters have been in good form, but the bowlers need to perform as a group if they are to win this game. Ryan Rickelton is currently the highest run-scorer of this season with 182 runs in three innings at an average of 60.67 and a strike rate of 182, including a century.
Rassie van der Dussen also scored a fifty in the last game. The likes of Nicholas Pooran and the whole middle order need to chip in with consistent performances. Rashid Khan picked up 2 wickets in the last game, but overall, their bowling has been average.
Paarl Royals, on the other hand, are third in the table with two wins in three games. Lhuan-Dre Pretorius scored 98 in the last game against MI, while Asa Tribe also scored 51 runs. David Miller has been in good touch as well, but the other batters from Paarl also need to step up.
The spinners haven’t been very effective for the Royals, and they also need to pull up their socks. Ottneil Baartman picked up four wickets, while Sikandar Raza picked up three in the last match. The Royals too need contributions from the other players to move forward in the tournament.
This match will be played at Newlands, Cape Town, on 4th January 2026, at 7:00 PM IST.
SA20 2025-26 13th Match: MICT vs PR Probable Playing XIs
MI Cape Town: 1. Rassie van der Dussen, 2. Ryan Rickelton, 3. Nicholas Pooran (wk), 4. Jason Smith, 5. Jacques Snyman, 6. Tom Moores, 7. George Linde, 8. Rashid Khan (c), 9. Kagiso Rabada, 10. Trent Boult, 11. Dane Piedt/Tristan Luus
A good batting track will await both sides for this game. The ball will come onto the bat nicely, allowing the batters to play their shots. Both games played at Cape Town this season so far have seen scores of 220+ in the first innings.
The new ball may move a bit for the pacers, and the spinners will also get some aid, but overall, the batters are expected to dominate. Scores in the range of 180-200 are expected in this game with teams preferring to chase.
It will be partly cloudy in Cape Town with no chance of rain. The temperature will hover around 19-21 degrees Celsius during the game.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for MICT vs PR: Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top Wicket-Keeper Picks:
Nicholas Pooran hasn’t been at his best till now, but a big knock is around the corner for him, and this might be the game where he goes big. He’s expected to bat at 3 and will be a must in your fantasy teams.
Ryan Rickelton has been the best batter for MI, and he’s someone you don’t want to miss in your fantasy teams, as he has this habit of scoring big when he gets off to a start.
Key batter picks:
Rassie van der Dussen looked in good touch for his 59 runs in the last game. He will be a key batter for MI with the others playing around him. Rassie will be worth considering in your fantasy teams, especially looking at MI’s middle order.
Lhuan-Dre Pretorius showed why he’s rated so highly in the last game. He scored 98* runs and helped his side to a winning total. He looks to attack from the word go and can take down any bowling on his day. Pretorius will be a top C/VC option as well.
David Miller will bat at number 4 with Sikandar Raza back in the side. Miller scored 71* off just 38 in the second-to-last game against the Sunrisers. He’s one of the most destructive batters when on song and a top fantasy pick.
Top all-rounder picks:
George Linde will bowl his full quota and can hit a long ball. He will be a must in your fantasy teams considering his multi-skill set. You can try him as C/VC as well.
Sikandar Raza failed with the bat in the last game, but he picked up 3 wickets and contributed from fielding as well. He’s a key player for Paarl with both bat and ball. Worth trying as C/VC.
Key bowler picks:
Rashid Khan picked up 2 wickets and scored a quickfire 38 to nearly take his side over the line. He’ll look to lead from the front in this game and can repeat a similar performance from the last game. Make him captain in one of your teams.
Ottniel Baartman picked up 4 wickets in the last match. He will bowl the key overs for Paarl and has this knack of picking up wickets in clusters on his day. A top pick, especially while bowling first.
Other Players to Consider for Your Fantasy Cricket Team
Kagiso Rabada
Trent Boult
Bjorn Forutin
SA20 2025/26 13th Match: MICT vs PR Dream11 Prediction
Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams.
Option 1:
SA20 2025/26 13th Match: MICT vs PR Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
SA20 2025/26 13th Match: MICT vs PR Dream11 Prediction
SA20 2025-26 13th Match: MICT vs PR Match Prediction: Who will win?
Both teams are struggling to perform as a unit and are dependent on a handful of in-form players to do the bulk of the work. But at the moment, the Paarl Royals look in good form and much more settled with Sikandar Raza coming back in the middle order.
MI Cape Town looks very strong on paper, but apart from the openers and Nicholas Pooran, the middle order is struggling very badly. The bowlers too have been off color.
Paarl Royals to win this game.
Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes for Dream11 free contests in line with the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. The stats and writer’s views are in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.
All statistics and matchups in this article have been verified by ESPNcricinfo, Bigbashboard and Cricmetric.
This edition of the Melbourne derby has the makings of a cracking match. A huge crowd of around 60,000 is expected at the MCG to watch the Stars and Renegades do battle with different objectives.
The Stars are sitting pretty in second position with four wins out of five. However, they are coming off a defeat against Brisbane Heat in a game they had in their control. It was the first time they batted first this season, and their death bowling came under the microscope. It failed, so how will they respond?
The Renegades need to win this match. They have won just one of four matches as this season threatens to follow the path of other disappointing campaigns. Their batting has only been managing middling scores since their first up win against Brisbane Heat. Whether it can fire against a Stars attack that has largely been efficient remains to be seen.
BBL 2025/26 22nd Match: STA vs REN Possible Playing XIs
Melbourne Stars have named an unchanged squad. They could stick with the same XI especially as Blake Macdonald impressed so much on debut with 37* off 12 balls.
Melbourne Stars: 1. Sam Harper (wk), 2. Thomas Rogers, 3. Marcus Stoinis (c), 4. Campbell Kellaway, 5. Glenn Maxwell, 6. Hilton Cartwright, 7. Tom Curran (OS), 8. Blake Macdonald, 9. Mitchell Swepson, 10. Haris Rauf (OS), 11. Peter Siddle
Melbourne Renegades have named batsman Harry Dixon and spinner Callum Stow in their squad.
Melbourne Renegades: 1. Josh Brown, 2. Tim Seifert (OS), 3. Muhammad Rizwan (OS, wk), 4. Jake Fraser-McGurk, 5. Oliver Peake, 6. Hassan Khan (OS), 7. Will Sutherland (c), 8. Matthew Spoors, 9. Andrew Tye, 10. Gurinder Sandhu, 11. Jason Behrendhorff
MCG Pitch Report and Weather
Chasing teams have won six of the past nine BBL matches at the MCG. The average first innings score in these games is 156 at a run rate of 8.10.
Since the start of BBL 2023/24, pace bowlers have taken 94 wickets at the MCG at an average of 24.99 and economy of 8.06. Spinners have picked up 53 wickets at an average of 24.87 and economy of 7.06.
A cool and clear evening is forecast with temperatures in the teens. Dew is a possibility.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for STA vs REN 2025/26: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top wicket-keeper picks:
Sam Harper has smashed 231 runs this season at an average of 115.50 and strike rate of 158.21. Whether he can improve on his poor record at the MCG (213 runs, avg. 16.4) will make for interesting viewing.
Tim Seifert is striking at 175.25 in BBL 2025/26 (170 runs, avg. 42.50). Since the start of 2025, Seifert has scored 1,653 T20 runs at an average of 33.1 and strike rate of 148.8.
Key batter picks:
Glenn Maxwell has an outstanding record against the Renegades, with 681 runs at an average of 42.56 and strike rate of 153.03. However, he is a better pick if the Stars bat first as his bowling could be limited given the Renegades’ lineup is filled with right-handers.
Jake Fraser-McGurk averages just 18.13 with a strike rate of 95.39 in eight games against the Stars. But, JFM batted with more maturity in the last game against Sydney Sixers. Something to keep an eye on.
Top all-rounder picks:
Marcus Stoinis enjoys playing against the Renegades, boasting 486 runs (avg. 44.18, SR 123.04) and 11 wickets (avg. 21.27, econ. 8.07) against them. Stoinis won player of the match in the previous BBL match at the MCG this season (62* and 2/18).
Tom Curran is the equal leading wicket-taker this season (10). Four of these wickets have come in the powerplay.
Key bowler picks:
Haris Rauf loves bowling at the MCG. In nine BBL matches at this venue, Rauf has taken 13 wickets at an average of 16.9 and strike rate of 14.3.
Peter Siddle has 10 wickets this season at the best economy rate of any bowler with at least seven wickets (6.80). He has 15 career wickets in 11 matches against Renegades.
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
Will Sutherland offers all-round value but has a horror record against the Melbourne Stars: 71 runs (avg. 8.88) and two wickets (avg. 103.50).
Can Muhammad Rizwan impact this game? He has scored 134 runs off 80 balls against Haris Rauf in T20s (avg. 67, SR 167.5).
Campbell Kellaway has looked in promising touch this season, scoring 112 runs at an average of 37.33 and strike rate of 136.58. He is a decent pick if Stars bat first.
Josh Brown has started strongly in the last two games, smashing 43 (19) and 26 (13).
Gurinder Sandhu is the Renegades’ leading wicket-taker this season with six.
Jason Behrendhorff has taken 14 wickets in 13 matches against the Stars at an economy of 6.92.
Mitchell Swepson has 10 wickets in eight BBL matches at the MCG (avg. 20.4, SR 17.4).
Other Stats and Important Matchups
Head-to-head: Matches 28, Stars 18, Renegades 10.
Stars lead Renegades 9-5 at the MCG.
Glenn Maxwell in all T20s at the MCG: 41 inns, 1,332 runs, avg. 43, SR 156.9.
Marcus Stoinis has 1,148 runs (avg. 37, SR 138.1) and 21 wickets (avg. 19.6, econ. 7.23) in all T20s at the MCG.
Jason Behrendhorff vs Sam Harper: 15 balls, 23 runs, no dismissals.
Jason Behrendhorff vs Marcus Stoinis: 40 balls, 42 runs, two dismissals.
Haris Rauf vs Tim Seifert: 41 balls, 44 runs, two dismissals.
BBL 2025/26 22nd Match: STA vs REN Dream11 Prediction Today
Option 1:
BBL 2025/26 22nd Match: STA vs REN Dream11 Prediction Today
Option 2:
BBL 2025/26 22nd Match: STA vs REN Dream11 Prediction Today
BBL 2025/26 22nd Match: STA vs REN Match Prediction – Who will win?
Stars to win.
Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes for Dream11 free contests in line with the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. The stats and writer’s views are in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.
All statistics and matchups in this article have been verified by ESPNcricinfo, Bigbashboard and Cricmetric.
Damien Martyn’s partner has provided an update on his health. The Australian legend fell ill on Boxing Day and was diagnosed with meningitis, a serious inflammation of the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord. He was placed in an induced coma.
“Damien is progressing well with his medical treatment,’’ said Martyn’s partner Amanda in a statement to News Corp.
“We also want to express our deepest appreciation to the medical team at Gold Coast University Hospital who have been nothing short of amazing throughout this challenging time.
“This has been a trying time and the family ask that you respect their privacy.’’
Damien Martyn update: Adam Gilchrist says positive signs in recovery
Earlier this week, friend and former teammate Adam Gilchrist provided an update on Martyn’s condition. He said there had been some “positive signs” in his recovery from the serious infection.
“He’s still in hospital. There’ll be more details coming out as they come to hand but certainly in the last 24 hours, some positive signs are the indications coming out of the various tests he’s having,” Gilchrist said on Fox Cricket’s commentary of the Big Bash League, as quoted by The Guardian.
“There’s been so much interest and love. A fine player, terrific fella. I just hope he can continue his recovery.”
The news had sent shockwaves in the cricket community, with many fans, pundits and players expressing their best wishes.
Martyn played 67 Tests, scoring 4,406 runs at an average of 46.37. He also scored 5,346 runs in 208 ODIs, with his 88 not out in the 2003 World Cup Final one of the highlights of a terrific career.
Cricket fans usually hold their breath when the SCG New Years’ Test rolls around. Inclement weather has often impacted these matches, and eyes are on the weather forecast (and pitch) ahead of the fifth and final Ashes Test.
In promising news, the SCG weather looks promising, although rain is forecast on day one.
Sydney weather: Will it rain during the 5th Ashes Test at the SCG?
The Bureau of Meteorology(BOM) forecasts a “shower or two” with “a thunderstorm likely” with a top of 29 degrees on Sunday (day one). According to the platform, there is a 50% chance of at least 2mm and 25% chance of at least 7mm.
AccuWeather says “watch out for a strong storm in the afternoon”. However, according to its hourly forecast, there will be partly cloudy conditions until 5pm, with less than a 15% chance of precipitation.
SCG weather forecast for day 1 of the 5th Ashes Test (morning).
SCG weather forecast for day 1 of the 5th Ashes Test (afternoon).
Conditions will be just about perfect for the rest of the Test. BOM forecasts a possible storm on day two, but rain is expected to be minimal (0-1). Day three will have a top of 27 degrees with partly cloudy conditions (no chance of rain), while days four (30 degrees) and five (32 degrees) will be warmer with no rain as well.
SCG weather forecast for the 5th Ashes Test (Bureau of Meteorology).
How will the pitch play?
Cool conditions in the leadup to the Test could see a bowler-friendly pitch early in the match. However, it should settle down into days two and three especially as there will be more sunshine.
Curator Adam Lewis said they will leave about 6mm of grass. This is less than what last year’s pitch had for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test, which was quite a spicy surface.
“We took our learnings from last year [BGT Test],” Lewis said, as quoted by Sydney Morning Herald. “Maybe a bit too much in it on day one. We always get nervous this time of year. This is our grand final. We work months leading into our Test preparation.
“We’re just excited to get there. The only thing we can’t control is the weather. We’re just trying to prepare a pitch that’s a great balance for bat and ball.
“They’re saying [there will be] a bit more sun tomorrow, so that will take the green out of the pitch. We’re really happy with the pitch at the moment.”
The addition of several stars from Pakistan has enhanced the popularity of the Big Bash League (BBL).
Babar Azam’s Sydney Sixers beat Mohammad Rizwan’s Melbourne Renegades by six wickets on New Years’ Day in Melbourne, with the 31-year-old scoring an unbeaten 58 from 46 deliveries. For the Renegades, Hassan Khan turned out to be one of the few positives as he scored a 29-ball 39 to help the the hosts post a decent total.
Despite being new to the BBL, Hassan is a regular face in other T20 leagues such as the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and Major League Cricket (MLC). He also represented Pakistan in the U19 World Cup in 2016 before becoming an American cricketer.
During an exclusive interview with Arvind Kalyana Krishnan for CricBlog following the match, Hassan Khan drew light on the fans in Australia as well as the Pakistani fans down under. The USA cricketer also spoke about his experience while playing alongside Mohammad Rizwan in the BBL.
When asked about his favourite players, the all-rounder stated that he loves watching AB de Villiers bat. Hassan also said that he loves the bowling of players like Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammad Nawaz, before expressing his excitement over the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026.
Hassan Khan interview: I watch Ravindra Jadeja and Mohammad Nawaz closely
Below is the video (Hindi/Urdu) and text (English) of the conversation between Hassan Khan and Arvind Kalyana Krishnan:
Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: You’re currently playing at Melbourne Renegades alongside Mohammad Rizwan. So how has your experience been with him for now?
Hassan Khan: It’s a very nice experience. Although I’ve played with Rizwan bhai in Pakistan, I’ve mostly played against him. Over here I’m playing with him, and I’m getting to learn a lot because, you know, Rizwan bhai is a big name in Pakistan cricket and even in international cricket. So, I’m trying to learn as much as I can from his experience, and I’m spending good time with him and I’m enjoying it.
Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: If we talk about Australia, then there are a lot of Pakistani fans, Indian fans, and Sri Lankan fans, so how has your experience been while playing in Australia?
Hassan Khan: Yes, of course, it’s a very good experience, and if we talk about this match (Melbourne Renegades vs Sydney Sixers game) then there was a lot of Pakistani crowd, it was almost houseful, so yeah, I enjoyed playing today. It felt like I’m playing in Pakistan only with the amount of Pakistani crowd that came. Obviously, when there’s crowd it feels good and it’s always fun as they support us and we try to entertain them as much as possible.
Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: Who are your favourite cricketers from this generation? Do you have any?
Hassan Khan: Yes, of course! I love watching AB de Villiers bat. Other than that, I love Ravindra Jadeja’s bowling and Pakistan’s Mohammad Nawaz’s bowling. So I try to look at them and see the way they play…. Like how they bat and bowl in different situations, I try to learn from them.
Arvind Kalyana Krishnan: The T20 World Cup is on it’s way. So how do you perceive it for now? I mean what are your expectations from it? Which player will play well? Any team in particular? Do Pakistan have an opportunity to play well?
Hassan Khan: Yes, of course, T20 is a format where you can’t predict anything like who’ll play well and who won’t. I mean, you know all teams in international cricket are good. So whichever team performs well on that day wins. So I hope we have a good tournament and a good World Cup and the people who are watching enjoy watching it!
Sydney Thunder are in must-win territory. Last year’s finalists have won just one of their first five games and have been thrashed on multiple occasions, culminating in their terrible net run rate of -1.463.
The Thunder have been a mess. They’ve conceded big totals and have only got going with the bat once. Last time out, they reduced the Perth Scorchers to 34/3 in 5.3 overs, only to then concede 202/8 courtesy of an Ashton Turner classic.
Today, the Thunder desperately need an all-round performance and to hold their nerve in the pressure moments. It won’t be easy against defending champions Hobart Hurricanes, who are smarting from their own loss to Perth Scorchers.
The Hurricanes were on the wrong end of Mitchell Marsh and Aaron Hardie dominance. They will be aiming to bounce back today, and given the way the Thunder have been batting, Nathan Ellis’ team will fancy their chances.
BBL 2025/26 21st Match: THU vs HUR Possible Playing XIs
Nic Maddinson returns to the Thunder squad after recovering from a broken thumb and other health battles. He could make the XI as the Thunder batting is misfiring.
Shadab Khan is available for this match before he leaves for Pakistan’s T20I series against Sri Lanka. Reece Topley has left for the SA20.
Sydney Thunder: 1. David Warner (c), 2. Matthew Gilkes, 3. Sam Konstas, 4. Cameron Bancroft/Nic Maddinson, 5. Sam Billings (OS, wk), 6. Daniel Sams, 7. Shadab Khan (OS), 8. Chris Green, 9. Nathan McAndrew, 10. Tanveer Sangha, 11. Wes Agar
The Hurricanes could stick with the same XI. One move they could make is playing the in-form Nikhil Chaudhary up the order.
Hobart Hurricanes: 1. Tim Ward, 2. Mitchell Owen, 3. Nikhil Chaudhary, 4. Ben McDermott, 5. Mac Wright, 6. Matthew Wade (wk), 7. Chris Jordan (OS), 8. Rehan Ahmed (OS), 9. Nathan Ellis (c), 10. Rishad Hossain (OS), 11. Riley Meredith
ENGIE Stadium Sydney Showground Pitch Report and Weather
Batting first has proved fruitful at Sydney Showground this season. Sydney Sixers (198/5) and Perth Scorchers (202/8) enjoyed very comfortable victories against the struggling Sydney Thunder. In fact, teams batting first have won the past five games dating back to last season.
Pace bowlers have fared well on this ground in BBL 2025/26. They have picked up 25 wickets in the two games at an average of 15.76 and economy of 8.49. Spinners have taken just seven wickets so far at an average of 40.43 and economy of 9.43.
A partly cloudy evening is forecast with a top of 21 degrees from 7pm to 10:30pm local time. No rain is expected.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for THU vs HUR 2025/26: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top wicket-keeper picks:
Ben McDermott has an excellent record against Sydney Thunder, with 493 runs at an average of 41.1 and strike rate of 141.3.
Key batter picks:
It’s time for David Warner to deliver. The Thunder captain has scored 136 runs against the Hurricanes at an average of 68 and strike rate of 136.
Nikhil Chaudhary is the third-highest run-scorer in BBL 2025/26 with 211 at an average of 35.16 and strike rate of 155.14.
Top all-rounder picks:
Mitchell Owen has been out of form. But, he plays one of his favourite opponents today. He has smashed 163 runs at an average of 54.3 and strike rate of 232.9 against the Thunder, including a century in last season’s final.
Daniel Sams continues to be inconsistent in his performances, but he does produce fantasy points with bat and ball. He has 17 wickets against the Hurricanes at an average of 23.8 and economy of 15.6.
Shadab Khan is the Thunder’s third-highest run-scorer (104) and leading wicket-taker (7) this season. He has amassed 480 Dream11 points in BBL 2025/26.
Chris Jordan bowls in the crunch overs and will fancy his chances against a misfiring, inconsistent Thunder lineup.
Key bowler picks:
Nathan Ellis has taken 16 wickets against the Thunder at an average of 21.1 and strike rate of 15.8. He has dominant records against Sam Billings (four dismissals for 25 runs in 26 balls) and Matt Gilkes (three dismissals in five balls for one run).
Rishad Hossain went wicketless against the Scorchers (0/35) but took eight wickets in his previous four matches.
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
Matthew Gilkes has notched up 345 Dream11 points this season. However, he has to overcome a terrible record against the Hurricanes: 9 inns, 100 runs, avg. 11.1, SR 140.8.
Sam Billings remains one of the key Thunder players. In eight innings against the Hurricanes, he has 208 runs at an average of 29.7 and strike rate of 144.4.
Riley Meredith has taken 14 wickets in 11 innings against the Thunder at an average of 26.9 and strike rate of 18.4.
Sam Konstas is still searching for his most fluent batting with three 20+ scores in his last five matches. He is striking at just 115.74 this season.
Nathan McAndrew has 17 wickets in 15 innings at Sydney Showground at an average of 22.8 and strike rate of 16.7.
Sam Billings against legspin in all T20s in 2025: 16 inns, 116 runs, avg. 19.3, SR 150.6.
David Warner BBL record at the Sydney Showground Stadium: 7 inns, 176 runs, avg. 35.2, SR 131.3.
Nathan McAndrew vs Hobart Hurricanes: 10 inns, 8 wickets, avg. 33.4, SR 21.4.
Daniel Sams vs Ben McDermott in all T20s: 75 balls, 109 runs, three wickets.
Nathan Ellis vs David Warner: 42 balls, 70 runs, one wicket.
Riley Meredith vs David Warner: 31 balls, 24 runs, one wicket.
Nathan McAndrew vs Mitchell Owen: 10 balls, 26 runs, no wickets.
Daniel Sams vs Mitchell Owen: 13 balls, 22 runs, no wickets.
BBL 2025/26 21st Match: THU vs HUR Dream11 Prediction Today
Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams.
Option 1:
BBL 2025/26 21st Match: THU vs HUR Dream11 Prediction Today
Option 2:
BBL 2025/26 21st Match: THU vs HUR Dream11 Prediction Today
BBL 2025/26 21st Match: THU vs HUR Match Prediction – Who will win?
Sydney Thunder will put an improved showing, but the Hobart Hurricanes should have too much quality.
Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes for Dream11 free contests in line with the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. The stats and writer’s views are in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.
All statistics and matchups in this article have been verified by ESPNcricinfo, Bigbashboard and Cricmetric.
Usman Khawaja has announced his retirement from international cricket. The fifth and final Ashes Test at the SCG will be his last, 15 years after he made his debut at the same venue.
Khawaja fronted the media on Friday morning. His extended family was in the room, including wife Rachael, his two children, and parents.
“It’s been tough – I’ve just wanted to tell everyone,” Khawaja said at the SCG, as quoted by cricket.com.au.
“I told teammates just then – I didn’t think I’d get emotional but I teared up straightaway and I had to compose myself. I finally composed myself and got out what I wanted to say.
“I never thought I’d be the guy that would cry when he retired but I cried straightaway. It just shows what it means to me. My journey has been different to a lot of cricketers in the Australian cricket team. All that emotion built up.”
Usman Khawaja announces retirement: Fans react
Khawaja enters his final match with 87 Tests and 6,206 runs under his belt at an average of 43.39. He is currently 15th on the list of all-time run-scorers for Australia in men’s Tests, and needs 30 more to surpass Michael Hussey.
The SCG has been a special place for Khawaja. Not only did he make his debut at his home ground, he also struck twin hundreds in his comeback Test in the 2021-22 Ashes. That match kickstarted a successful run in the Test side where he played a number of fine knocks as opener, most notably in Pakistan, England and Sri Lanka.
Fans and former players sent their tributes to Khawaja and praised him on a fantastic career.
“Congratulations to @Uz_Khawaja on a fantastic career, well done for everything you have achieved. Congratulations to the family,” wrote Darren Lehmann on X (formerly Twitter).
Usman will finish up with the 19th most tests, at least 17th most centuries and 15th most runs for Australia after a mid-career exile and batting in some of the most bowler-friendly conditions in Australian history. Don't let anyone ever tell you he's not an all time great.
Usman Khawaja made the best century I've seen live in in a pink ball Test v South Africa in 2016. He was slated to bat 3, but Faf du Plessis declared late on day 1 knowing Dave Warner had been off the ground too long to open, so Uzzie had to walk out and do the job.
Congratulations @Uz_Khawaja on a great cricketing career. Your attitude to the game and the public has always been of the highest standard. I wish you well and thank you and hope to see you in a public role one day.👏🙏👍
Incredible career Uzzie from prodigy to being done, to BBL god mode, test career saved by covid and essentially a second 50-test career post 35. Seeing his 100 in front of his dad and Modi in Ahmedabad after the visa debacle was just the best. pic.twitter.com/3DI0d07uU3
“I’m a proud Muslim coloured boy from Pakistan who was told he would never play for the Australian cricket team – look at me now,” Khawaja said.
“I just want to be remembered as a humble cricketer who went out there and entertained, and (that) people enjoyed watching.”
Khawaja will continue to play in the Big Bash League for Brisbane Heat. He has also made himself available to be selected for Queensland’s Sheffield Shield team.
