Australia have retained the Ashes in dominant fashion, sealing a 3-0 triumph courtesy of an 82-run win in Adelaide. Series victory in 11 days is one of the fastest in history, but the hosts will make changes due to a host of factors.
Pat Cummins won’t play any further part in the series. Coach Andrew McDonald said it is important Australia manages his workload after the captain suffered a lumbar stress injury in the West Indies earlier this year.
Nathan Lyon will also miss the remaining two Tests after suffering a serious hamstring injury on day five at the Adelaide Oval. The offspinner will undergo surgery to repair the damage.
Australia possible XI for the Boxing Day Test at the MCG:1. Jake Weatherald, 2. Travis Head, 3. Marnus Labuschagne, 4. Steve Smith (c), 5. Usman Khawaja, 6. Alex Carey (wk), 7. Cameron Green/Beau Webster, 8. Mitchell Starc, 9. Todd Murphy, 10. Scott Boland, 11. Jhye Richardson
Todd Murphy was named as Lyon’s replacement in the 15-man squad. Given conditions will be warm and sunny in the middle part of the Test, the MCG track could take spin as the game wears on. However, McDonald is not sure.
“We’ve got some decisions to make. I just had a look at the wicket then. Do we play a spinner, don’t we play a spinner?” McDonald said, as quoted by CODE Sports.
“We’ll work through that. But yeah, it was an interesting conversation with the spin depth that we do have, which is full recognition to those also that were discussed.”
Other points of contention include who misses out for the returning Steve Smith plus the form of Cameron Green. Usman Khawaja, not originally selected for the Adelaide Test, had a solid outing with scores of 82 and 40. That may be enough for him to hold his spot in the middle order ahead of Josh Inglis.
However, with Alex Carey batting so well at six, Khawaja’s inclusion may mean Cameron Green drops down from number five to seven.
Will Cameron Green play?
That’s if Green is picked. Calls are growing louder for the underperforming all-rounder to be dropped for Beau Webster. Green has been short of runs in this series, with the nature of his dismissals a cause of concern. He also averages just 28.62 with no century in 18 home Tests.
“I think he’s bowled some important spells for us. His catching in the gully and shot-stopping ability there,” McDonald said of Green.
“Yeah, the returns haven’t been there, but we’ve also seen what capabilities and the upside that he has, and he’s an important part of what we’re setting out to achieve in the short term and the long term. And he’s a very good cricketer, and I’m sure that his next opportunity, he’ll be able to show that whenever that may be.”
How both Cameron Green and Beau Webster could make the XI
But, there is a possibility that both Green and Webster play if Australia opt not to play Todd Murphy. McDonald was quite complimentary of Murphy and how he has improved this season, but there is no guarantee he will play in this match.
“Todd’s been an important part of key overseas series. He played in the last Ashes back in 2023 and we feel as though Todd’s back to his best,” McDonald said.
“I think he had a couple of years where he, by his own admission wasn’t probably performing to his best, but he also was carrying a shoulder injury, and that probably wasn’t sort of declared. And sometimes people judge players’ performances without getting a full understanding of where they’re actually at.”
What about Jhye Richardson?
The fact Jhye Richardson was named in the squad with Michael Neser and Brendon Doggett already available could be a hint that the Western Australian is set for a Test recall.
Richardson’s last Test was against England in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide in 2021. The pace bowler was magnificent in the second innings, taking 5/42 to guide Australia to a 2-0 series lead. Since then, Richardson struggled with more injuries, most notably his shoulder.
Richardson made his return to red-ball action last month against England Lions. He went wicketless at Lilac Hill before impressing with 4/35 at Allan Border Field in Brisbane.
If Australia opt against playing Richardson, Michael Neser is likely to get the nod as Pat Cummins’ replacement after producing a superb performance at the Gabba earlier this month.
Australia squad for the Boxing Day Test: Steve Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster
Summer? What summer? Melbourne will shiver through cold temperatures this week, with a top of 17 degrees on Christmas Day. Boxing Day won’t be much warmer, with a top of 18 degrees as forecast by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM).
It is a far cry from day one of last year’s Boxing Day Test between Australia and India. It was a hot, muggy day with temperatures touching 40 degrees.
Will it rain in Melbourne during the Ashes Boxing Day Test?
It may be a cool first couple of days, but the good news is rain won’t be much of a factor, if it all.
According to BOM, there is a possible shower or two on Friday (day one), but only a 25% chance of up to 1mm. The weather will warm up on days two, three and four, with temperatures of 21 degrees, 27 degrees and 32 degrees respectively. No rain is expected on any of those three days.
AccuWeather forecasts similar, with occasional afternoon rain a possibility on day five.
MCG Melbourne weather forecast for Boxing Day Test, according to Bureau of Meteorology
Spotlight on MCG pitch as Australia aim to go 4-0 up
The MCG curators are aiming to replicate the pitch that was prepared for the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) classic.
“It’s probably the best Test match I have been involved with,” said Melbourne Cricket Club curator Matt Page, as quoted by cricket.com.au.
“The contest throughout, the ebbs and flows, one team was up, then the next team was up, all three results were still possible on day five.
“It was a fantastic Test match, so if we can replicate this year that would be fantastic.”
Rain in the lead up to the Test could impact the pitch preparation. Last year, the groundstaff left seven or eight millimetres of grass for the BGT Test. With sunny conditions forecast on days two, three and four, Page hinted at the possibility of leaving more moisture in the pitch.
“We were seven or eight (mm of grass) last year,” Page said.
“The next couple of days, with the way the weather is, a few showers on Christmas Day and then obviously we’ll get some heat day three, day four. We’ll keep monitoring it.”
Since the bore draw in the 2017/18 Ashes, the MCG has seen results in all seven Tests since. There have been some excellent matches, including the 2023 Test against Pakistan which ebbed and flowed.
England’s mentality has come into question following comments from coach Brendon McCullum and batsman Zak Crawley during and after their Ashes series defeat in Adelaide.
England, who came into the series with optimism, lost the series in 11 days which means their wait for a first Ashes triumph since 2015 will continue. Comments that have come to light since did little to improve the mood of the English fans.
The first was Crawley’s which, remarkably, came before the Adelaide Test was even over. “We’ll never give up. The last two (2017/18 and 2021/22) we haven’t won a Test here in a while so it’s a chance to win those two Tests (MCG and SCG). If we can get it back to 3-2. Suddenly it’s a pretty good series. We were this close,” Crawley told the BBC, as quoted by news.com.au.
McCullum, whose job is under significant scrutiny, gave his reason as to why he’d like to stay on as coach. “It’s a pretty good gig. It’s good fun,” said McCullum, as quoted by the BBC. “You travel the world with the lads and try to play some exciting cricket and try to achieve some things.”
“This just can’t be a real quote? Please someone tell me it’s a parody,” wrote former England keeper-batsman Matt Prior on X (formerly Twitter) in relation to Crawley’s comments.
Crawley made 85 in the second innings at Adelaide. England ended day four at 207/6, still needing 228 for an improbable victory. However, a strong partnership from Will Jacks and Jamie Smith – plus a serious hamstring injury for Nathan Lyon – meant England were in with a chance.
However, England’s poor decision-making came to the fore once again as Smith was dismissed playing a very rash shot to Mitchell Starc.
This just can’t be a real quote??? Please someone tell me it’s a parody…. https://t.co/7VH5GoSWZm
All the responses from McCullum Crawley Trescothick Key and Jeetan Patel i find appallingly arrogant . Irrespective of results it’s a vile look & just makes them even more dislikeable .But it appears it’s about them having a fun time with no comebacks #AUSvsENG#Ashes2025
Very "salesy" vibe from Baz right from his captaincy days. Its gotten worse as a coach. Always selling some brand, rather than speaking as a cricket coach. He's good voice for a sales pitch, will give him that. https://t.co/Krw0I3GWQL
Preparation was too much first. Now they’re too driven. At some point in Melbourne or Sydney, Baz is going to say that being alive got in the way of England winning the Ashes on this tour. https://t.co/ytrBHgYWiu
England’s camp sounds completely lost. Key is busy denying drinking stories, Baz is talking like it’s a holiday gig, and Crawley thinks 3–2 suddenly makes everything “pretty good.”#Ashespic.twitter.com/B81yMFpDb6
The priority now for England is winning the Boxing Day Test. Victory for Ben Stokes’ team at the MCG will ensure they don’t break the record for the most consecutive winless Tests in Australia. The current record is 18, held by England (2013-2025) and New Zealand (1985-2011).
We warned England in 2023. It’s all come unravelling in 2025. Australia have sealed a home Ashes series in straight sets for the fourth time in a row, dismantling Bazball in 11 days.
The talk from the English media and public was quite bullish ahead of the series. Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood were injured. Australia are old. And, this English team is so talented that up to eight players make a combined Ashes XI.
Therein lied the problem. Talent alone doesn’t win you a Test series down under. Hard-nosed cricket does. This England side, in Key-McCullum-Stokes era, have rarely displayed those qualities, sticking to their one-dimensional style that has seen them come up short in the biggest series.
England off the field reflect the team on it. Their questionable preparation and time spent on the golf course left them short of a gallop when the first ball was sent down in Perth.
This is not to say that visiting teams shouldn’t have a break during a tough tour, but the golf and drinks sure seem to be a priority. Alarm bells were ringing loud and clear when news came out that Noosa was planned a year in advance before England scrambled for a bowling coach just weeks out from the series. Dale Steyn was approached on short notice, and unsurprisingly declined.
Plenty has been made of England’s Noosa “stag-do” following the Brisbane Test, with Stokes’ suggestion for a 12km run falling on deaf ears. The Telegraph’s Nick Hoult went as far to say that it “sums up why this Ashes tour fell apart.” However, England were on a hiding to nothing with such limited preparation, and it’s no surprise the visitors produced their most competitive performance in the third Test.
Stokes, on the other hand, put everything down to losing the toss. If it was intended to be a joke, only Australians found it funny.
"Called heads first two (coin tosses) and won this one."
🗣️ Ben Stokes on if there's anything he would've done differently over the first three matches | #Ashespic.twitter.com/67c948z8xx
Ashes 2025/26 analysis: Australia seal series in satisfying fashionagainst underprepared England
Fielding: Chalk and cheese
The view that Alex Carey’s non-dismissal on day one in Adelaide was the biggest difference is nonsense. England had calls go their way in the city of churches, with Joe Root surviving two very close calls and Jake Weatherald incorrectly given out LBW (yes, he should have reviewed).
In the field, the two teams were so far apart as if they were satellites orbiting different planets. Harry Brook’s drops in Adelaide – Usman Khawaja on 5 and Travis Head on 99 – proved extremely costly, as did the host of missed chances in a diabolical effort at the Gabba earlier this month.
Marnus Labuschagne twice matched Steve Smith’s Gabba classic, taking incredible one-handed efforts to put Australia on the cusp. The take to dismiss Will Jacks was simply remarkable given the context of the match and all the talk would have been that he should’ve left it for Alex Carey had he dropped it.
Marnus Labuschagne has taken three blinders so far this series…
Speaking of Carey, Australia’s best keeper-batsman since Adam Gilchrist has produced one of the finest wicketkeeping displays in recent memory, while his teammates – including Josh Inglis at the Gabba – have all been on the ball throughout the series. Mitchell Starc is having an Ashes to remember, maintaining high speeds in the heat and after scoring crucial half-centuries.
In contrast, England’s lack of intensity on day three at Adelaide was damaging. Two days in the heat had taken its toll. Ben Stokes’ team simply allowed Australia to notch up a lead of 356 without breaking sweat, as Will Jacks – a part-time spinner – bowled the most overs in a game where the spinner who was prepared for this tour – Shoaib Bashir – wasn’t selected.
Australia bowled better, for longer
Ben Stokes noticed Bashir via social media clips and was impressed with what he saw on the highlights package. The offspinner soon made his Test debut after just six First Class matches.
That sums up this England regime. Flashy boundaries from their batters, the occasional good delivery or the ideal physical attributes gets everyone very excited. Josh Hull, anyone?
Test cricket isn’t about a few nice shots or one or two good spells. It’s about coming back spell after spell, day after day. A key difference between the teams was Australia’s fast bowlers were on the money immediately at the start of their spells, and at pace. England’s bowlers would offer a few cut or pull shots at a much lower pace before they’d settle in. They’d then be unable to maintain their lines and lengths for long enough, offering easy runs to the Australians.
Surely the team management didn’t have Carse’s friendly new ball bowling in mind when they decided to move James Anderson on.
Australia were terrific with the ball, especially from the second innings of the Gabba onwards. The likes of Scott Boland would never leave the “shoebox” before the broadcasters’ comparisons between he and Brydon Carse painted the picture.
England’s mentality and preparation gave them next to no chance of retaining Ashes urn
Teams who have enjoyed success in Australia in the 21st century have outlasted Australia, absorbing pressure throughout and earning the right to enjoy periods of dominance.
Think of Cheteshwar Pujara’s 2,186 deliveries faced across the 2018/19 and 2020/21 tours. Or South Africa’s magnificent reguard action in Adelaide in 2012 that broke Australia ahead of the final Test of that series in Perth, which the Proteas won.
What the pre-series hype out of the UK failed to capture was whether this England side was capable of outlasting Australia. This England group underestimated the job at hand. In reality, the only hope was that England blow Australia away (as they did on day one at Perth) and go on with the job (as they didn’t on day two in Perth). To do that three times to regain the urn is next to impossible against an experienced team on their own turf.
“You can’t really rush things here in Australia,” Pat Cummins said after the Adelaide Test, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
“I think you kind of will it to happen, but it doesn’t really work that way. It’s good old-fashioned grind a lot of the time. I loved the toil from all the guys today [day five]. It got a little bit closer than I would have liked, but I’m pretty happy.”
England were in a rush and unprepared for the rigours of a tough Test series. The fact they only started to become truly competitive late in the third Test meant they were never match ready or fit. Their decision to skip a match against Australia A at a Test venue has come back to bite and serious questions should be asked when a friendly against England Lions at Lilac Hill was deemed sufficient preparation.
Bowling and fielding proves the difference with imperfect batting from both teams
Much has been made of England’s shoddy batting. And rightly so. Their breaks in concentration and poor strokeplay in crucial moments proved costly. They were able to bounce back from their Lord’s horror show in 2023, but coming back from 2-0 down in Australia is wishful thinking.
To be fair, Australia also left a little to be desired with their batting performances despite solid totals. Australia gifted wickets throughout the Gabba and Adelaide Tests to open the the door for England. Think Cameron Green at the Gabba, the entire first day in Adelaide and then Khawaja and Green again in the second innings.
However, Australia stitched more significant partnerships while England regularly lost wickets in clumps. Travis Head, in familiar style, has produced two match-defining performances in a high-profile series. With England unable to match Australia’s bowling and fielding prowess, they desperately needed more consistency from their top five.
In Adelaide, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Harry Brook and Jamie Smith in particular were out in very soft fashion in the second innings after England inexplicably fell to 168/8 on a flat surface in 40-degree heat on day two.
There is a world where England chase 435. The Adelaide pitch was still magnificent for batting on day five, and Nathan Lyon going down represented a huge opportunity. The new ball was the critical period, and Jamie Smith, indicative of England’s lack of match awareness throughout the series, played an extremely low-percentage shot off Australia’s fastest bowler after hitting four boundaries in a row. Had he and Will Jacks got the target to under 100 to win, anything could have happened.
STUPID, STUPID, STUPID.
Jamie Smith was batting beautifully. Getting through the new ball was everything with no Nathan Lyon.
Harry Brook is the other glaring example. Brook oozes ability, and we’ve seen glimpses of it in this series. But glimpses don’t win you Test matches in Australia. Hard graft does, and Brook still lacks that at this stage of his career. He’s made some big scores with momentum on his side against shellshocked opponents in recent years, but now opponents are onto him and he needs to adjust.
Harry Brook attempted to reverse sweep a ball he was nowhere near the pitch of.
Two other players who were touted for big series were Joe Root and Ben Duckett. However, neither have asked enough questions of Australia. The hosts know that hanging the ball in the channel long enough will get the job done. The fact that a single plan works time and again against a player with over 13,000 Test runs in particular is a huge disappointment for England.
Ben Duckett has been exposed. Opener who refuses to leave the ball in Australia is a recipe for disaster.#Ashes
Then you have Ollie Pope. He simply has too many technical deficiencies to be a successful Test number three. His head falls way over the offside, his frontfoot remains planted, his bat comes across at an angle, and he plays with very hard hands. With Zak Crawley arguably England’s best batter in the second innings at Adelaide, there is a very real possibility that Pope is the first casualty out of this Ashes defeat.
5-0 now on the cards for Australia
Marnus Labuschagne summed up Australia’s mood. Many had written them off at the start of the series. Three Tests later, and they have sealed the Ashes in the second-fastest time ever in terms of balls bowled (4,719).
“We have to say, being called the worst Australian team in 15 years … like it’s nice to be sitting where we are, 3-0 up,” Marnus Labuschagne told ABC radio, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. “The job’s not done yet. We want to make sure it’s 5-0 and really take that urn.”
Pat Cummins is on ice for Melbourne. Todd Murphy replaces the injured Nathan Lyon. Steve Smith is every chance of returning.
If you think Australia will let up now, think again. No team has gone winless in Australia in 19 Tests (New Zealand and England equal with 18), and it would be quite nice for the Aussies if England were to hold that record.
Brisbane Heat are back in action soon after pulling off the highest run chase in BBL history. On one of the most incredible nights ever in the tournament, the Heat, who had lost Colin Munro first ball, chased 258 courtesy of remarkable twin centuries by Matt Renshaw and Jack Wildermuth.
Now, the key question is: can they bat well again? Given how many runs the Heat have leaked so far, the batters may be required to perform well again.
However, the Sydney Thunder’s batting has left plenty to be desired after they were smashed by the Sydney Sixers on Saturday. David Warner’s team need to win. They have lost their first two matches, and their poor net run rate means they can’t afford to fall further behind.
BBL 2025/26 9th Match: THU vs HEA Possible Playing XIs
Sydney Thunder have named their squad. Aidan O’Connor replaces Tom Andrews, but the Thunder may stick to the same XI that lost to the Sixers. However, they need to figure out their batting order as they lost early wickets last time out.
Sydney Thunder: 1. Sam Konstas, 2. Matthew Gilkes, 3. David Warner (c), 4. Cameron Bancroft, 5. Sam Billings (OS, wk), 6. Shadab Khan (OS), 7. Daniel Sams, 8. Chris Green, 9. Nathan McAndrew, 10. Tanveer Sangha, 11. Reece Topley (OS)
Xavier Bartlett will captain the Brisbane Heat as Nathan McSweeney is ruled out due to an ankle injury. Max Bryant is a chance of playing despite injuring his shoulder in the Scorchers match. Tom Alsop is also in the squad.
Brisbane Heat: 1. Colin Munro (OS), 2. Jack Wildermuth, 3. Matt Renshaw, 4. Tom Alsop (OS), 5. Max Bryant, 6. Hugh Weibgen, 7. Jimmy Peirson (wk), 8. Xavier Bartlett (c), 9. Shaheen Shah Afridi (OS), 10. Liam Haskett, 11. Matt Kuhnemann
Manuka Oval Canberra Pitch Report and Weather
Chasing teams have won four of the past five BBL matches at Manuka Oval. The average first innings score in these games is 159.4.
Since the start of 2023, pace bowlers have taken 30 wickets in the BBL at an average of 28.47 and economy of 8.34. Spinners have dominated, taking 37 wickets at an average of 18.27 and economy of 7.54.
A clear and pleasant evening is forecast with a top of 22 degrees. There is a chance of dew in the second innings, so chasing may be preferred.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for THU vs HEA 2025/26: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top wicket-keeper picks:
Sam Billings was the Thunder’s best in the last match (51 off 28 balls). He has an excellent record against the Heat with 174 runs at an average of 43.50 and strike rate of 155.36.
Key batter picks:
Matt Renshaw is one of the most improved white-ball players in Australia and is fresh off an incredible 102 off 51 balls in the last match. He averages just 18 in nine matches against the Thunder, but he has the form and confidence to turn this around today.
David Warner has scores of 50 and 36 against the Heat at a strike rate of 153.57.
In 10 matches against the Thunder, Colin Munro has scored 368 runs at an average of 40.89 and strike rate of 126.03. Munro also averages 49.75 in five innings at Canberra.
Top all-rounder picks:
Jack Wildermuth has come of age. The fact he opens the batting and bowls for overs makes him the top captaincy pick in Dream11. He is coming off one of the greatest knocks in BBL history (110* off 54 balls).
Shadab Khan has made a promising start with the bat in BBL 2025/26, hitting two 30+ scores. He should also be a factor on a ground where spinners have had joy in recent years.
Daniel Sams strikes at 197.80 with the bat against the Heat and has 22 wickets in 12 innings.
Key bowler picks:
Xavier Bartlett has looked in good touch in the powerplay and should test the shaky Thunder top order. The seam bowler has 11 wickets in eight innings in HEA-THU matches at an average of 19.45.
Shaheen Shah Afridi has a good record against David Warner in T20s, dismissing him twice for 30 runs in 31 balls.
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
Cameron Bancroft averages 45.89 in 12 innings against the Brisbane Heat.
Tanveer Sangha has a fine record against the Heat (18 wickets in 11 innings) and has enjoyed success on this ground too (19 wickets in 13 innings).
Nathan McAndrew bowls in the death overs which bring wicket-taking opportunities. He strikes every 18 deliveries in 14 T20s at Canberra.
Sam Konstas smashed 56 off 27 balls on this ground in the BBL last season. He has also performed well in tour matches in Canberra.
Reece Topley took three wickets in the last match. He bowls in the crunch overs and is vital to the Thunder’s chances today.
Thunder and Heat have won two matches each head-to-head at Manuka Oval.
David Warner will be looking to improve on his poor record in T20s at Canberra: 6 inns, 89 runs, avg. 14.83, SR 118.67.
Daniel Sams has dismissed Matt Renshaw twice in 11 balls in the BBL, but those wickets came between 2020 and 2022. Can the left-armer do the same now? Sams also has the most wickets in T20s at Canberra (23).
Cameron Bancroft batting at number four in all T20s: 23 inns, 581 runs, avg. 34.2, SR 128.3.
Tom Alsop in all T20s this year: 515 runs, avg. 28.6, SR 132.7.
Matt Gilkes vs Brisbane Heat: 8 inns, 171 runs, avg. 24.43, SR 126.67.
Xavier Bartlett vs Cameron Bancroft in T20s: 32 balls, 40 runs, two wickets.
Tanveer Sangha vs Matt Renshaw in T20s: 12 balls, 17 runs, two wickets.
Reece Topley vs Colin Munro in T20s: 19 balls, 38 runs, no wickets.
BBL 2025/26 9th Match: THU 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 9th Match: THU vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today
Option 2:
BBL 2025/26 9th Match: THU vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today
BBL 2025/26 9th Match: THU vs HEA Dream11 Prediction Today
This is a genuine 50/50 game. Brisbane Heat come into the match full of confidence batting wise, but their bowling remains a worry. Sydney Thunder are also inconsistent. But, I will back them to get their first win of the season.
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.
Melbourne Renegades will be looking to build on their first up win against defending champions Hobart Hurricanes in the 8th match of BBL 2025/26.
Led by Tim Seifert’s terrific hundred and Oliver Peake’s impactful half-century, the Renegades struck a massive 212/5 against the Brisbane on this ground on Monday. The Hurricanes attack will provide more of a test, however, with the likes of Nathan Ellis able to keep the batters guessing.
For the Hurricanes, they are aiming to bounce back after a disappointing loss to Melbourne Stars at the MCG a few nights ago. They couldn’t find their rhythm with the bat and struggled for penetration with the ball as Marcus Stoinis and Campbell Kellaway led the Stars to an easy win.
Last season, the Renegades rolled the Hurricanes for 74 on this ground. But, the Geelong surface looked much better for batting in the first match this season, so there should be runs on offer.
BBL 2025/26 8th Match: REN vs HUR Possible Playing XIs
Adam Zampa and Sam Elliott have replaced Harry Dixon and Caleb Jewell in the Renegades squad. Zampa should replace Matthew Spoors in the XI.
Melbourne Renegades: 1. Josh Brown, 2. Tim Seifert (OS), 3. Muhammad Rizwan (wk, OS), 4. Jake Fraser-McGurk, 5. Oliver Peake, 6. Hassan Khan (OS), 7. Will Sutherland (c), 8. Fergus O’Neill, 9. Gurinder Sandhu, 10. Adam Zampa, 11. Jason Behrendhorff
Hobart Hurricanes have confirmed an unchanged squad from their match against the Stars. It will be interesting to see whether they persist with Rehan Ahmed at three.
Hobart Hurricanes: 1. Mitch Owen, 2. Nikhil Chaudhary, 3. Rehan Ahmed (OS), 4. Ben McDermott, 5. Tim David, 6. Matthew Wade (wk), 7. Chris Jordan (OS), 8. Nathan Ellis (c), 9. Rishad Hossain (OS), 10. Riley Meredith, 11. Billy Stanlake
GMHBA Stadium Geelong Pitch Report and Weather
The Geelong pitch was excellent for batting in the Renegades-Heat match last Monday. The Renegades hit 212/5 and Brisbane Heat responded with 198/8. Expect another good batting surface today.
Rain is forecast in Geelong, but most of it is expected to fall in the morning and early afternoon. According to AccuWeather’s hourly forecast, conditions should be cool and cloudy with just a 2% chance of precipitation from 7pm onwards.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for REN vs HUR 2025/26: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top wicket-keeper picks:
Tim Seifert smashed 102 off 56 balls on this ground on Monday. Seifert has scored 1,585 runs at an average of 33.7 and strike rate of 148.1 in all T20s this year.
Ben McDermott has made an excellent start to the BBL 2025/26 season, hitting 107 runs at an average of 53.50 and strike rate of 140.78. He also loves playing against the Renegades, with 599 runs at an average of 66.56 and strike rate of 152.81.
Key batter picks:
Tim David averages 41.75 with a strike rate of 170.41 in 10 matches against the Renegades (167 runs). Hurricanes could look to bat him at four to maximise his impact.
Top all-rounder picks:
Mitch Owen has belted 493 BBL runs at an average of 37.9 and strike rate of 203.7 since the start of 2024.
Will Sutherland picked up 112 Dream11 points in the opening match. His all-round ability makes him a key player. Against the Hurricanes, Sutherland has 84 runs (avg. 28, SR 127.27) and five wickets in eight innings (avg. 39, econ. 8.48).
Chris Jordan missed out against the Melbourne Stars, but he still offers value in fantasy cricket as he contributes in all three facets of the game. Jordan will be looking to improve on his seven wickets in eight matches against the Renegades (econ. 9.41).
Key bowler picks:
Jason Behrendhorff has taken 28 wickets in 17 innings against the Hurricanes at an economy of 6.93. He has good matchups against Ben McDermott (2/30 off 30 balls), Tim David (2/18 off 11 balls) and Matthew Wade (2/43 off 39 balls).
Nathan Ellis has 12 wickets in 11 innings against the Renegades. He has dismissed Josh Brown once in four balls without conceding a run.
Adam Zampa has 15 wickets in as many matches against the Hurricanes in his career.
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
Jake Fraser-McGurk can go big on his day but he remains unreliable. Also, he has scored just 62 runs in eight matches against the Hurricanes at an average of 7.75.
Riley Meredith is yet to take a wicket this season but has an excellent record against the Renegades (21 wickets in 13 innings, avg. 19.71). He also has an excellent record against Josh Brown (see below).
Rishad Hossain looked in good touch in the last game (2/33). Whether he can find some spin in Geelong is the key question.
It’s a big game for Muhammad Rizwan. He is averaging 49.8 in all T20s this year. Can he deliver?
Nikhil Chaudhary has opened the batting this season and offers fantasy value as a result.
Oliver Peake played a magnificent innings in the last match (57 off 29 balls). He’s been in fine form at stages this domestic season.
Jake Fraser-McGurk has scored 132 runs at an average of 26.4 and strike rate of 194.1 against legspin in T20s since the start of 2024. His matchups against Rishad Hossain and Rehan Ahmed could make for interesting viewing.
Riley Meredith vs Josh Brown in T20s: 24 balls, 16 runs, two wickets.
Will Sutherland vs Tim David in T20s: 17 balls, 22 runs, one wicket.
Adam Zampa vs Ben McDermott in T20s: 41 balls, 51 runs, no wickets.
Nathan Ellis vs Jake Fraser-McGurk in T20s: 10 balls, 10 runs, one wicket.
BBL 2025/26 8th Match: REN 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 8th Match: REN vs HUR Dream11 Prediction Today
Option 2:
BBL 2025/26 8th Match: REN vs HUR Dream11 Prediction Today
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.
However, that is unlikely on a Sydney Showground pitch that usually favours spin and cutters into the surface. Matches here are often tactical of nature where teams need to grind their way to competitive totals.
Sydney Sixers need to win. They’ve lost their first two matches, with the latest a home defeat to Adelaide Strikers after struggling to an under-par total. Their experienced players must step up, especially Babar Azam who is their big recruit.
Sydney Thunder will be just as keen as defeat here will mean two in a row after their loss to Hobart Hurricanes earlier in the week. David Warner’s return is a boost, although where he bats is not set in stone. Also, the Thunder have the spinners to cause the Sixers problems, and that is the aim on Saturday night.
BBL 2025/26 7th Match: THU vs SIX Possible Playing XIs
Kane Richardson is named in the Sydney Sixers squad. He could replace Mitch Perry in the XI. Todd Murphy is also available and could feature on what is typically a spin-friendly ground.
Sydney Sixers: 1. Daniel Hughes, 2. Babar Azam (OS), 3. Josh Philippe (wk), 4. Moises Henriques (c), 5. Jordan Silk, 6. Jack Edwards, 7. Joel Davies, 8. Ben Dwarshuis, 9. Hayden Kerr/Todd Murphy, 10. Kane Richardson, 11. Jafer Chohan
David Warner is available for this match. He replaces Ollie Davies in the squad. The Thunder captain could bat down the order.
“We don’t have that left-hander in the middle [order] that we’ve been looking for. It’s a conversation we’re having at the moment,” Warner said last week, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.
Sydney Thunder: 1. David Warner (c), 2. Sam Konstas, 3. Cameron Bancroft, 4. Sam Billings (wk, OS), 5. Matthew Gilkes, 6. Shadab Khan (OS), 7. Daniel Sams, 8. Chris Green, 9. Nathan McAndrew, 10. Tanveer Sangha, 11. Reece Topley (OS)
ENGIE Stadium Sydney Showground Pitch Report and Weather
Spin usually has a big say on this ground. The average first innings score in the last five BBL matches is 149.8. Teams batting first have won the past three games.
Since the start of 2023, pace bowlers have taken 63 wickets in the BBL at an average of 24.83 and economy of 8.00. Spinners have picked up 34 wickets at an average of 21.64 and low economy of 6.45.
A hot day is forecast with a top of 36 degrees in Western Sydney. There is the chance of an afternoon shower, but there is a “25% (low) chance of at least 1mm” according to the Bureau of Meteorology.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for THU vs SIX 2025/26: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top wicket-keeper picks:
Both Josh Philippe (avg. 13 in six innings) and Sam Billings (avg. 14.88 in nine innings) have a poor record on this ground. Billings has fared pretty well for the Thunder against the Sixers, though, hitting 114 runs at an average of 38.00 and strike rate of 140.74.
Key batter picks:
David Warner will be looking to make an immediate impact. He averages 41.50 with a strike rate of 143.10 in T20s at Sydney Showground.
Cameron Bancroft top scored with 61 for the Thunder in their season opener against the Hurricanes. Also, Bancroft has an excellent record on this ground: 10 inns, 397 runs, avg. 66.17, SR 123.29.
Daniel Hughes has 435 runs (avg. 48.33, SR 129.46) against the Sydney Thunder. He also has a dominant matchup against Daniel Sams, scoring 70 runs off 31 balls without dismissal.
Top all-rounder picks:
Daniel Sams enjoys bowling on this ground. He has the most wickets (34) at an average of 16.79 and economy of 7.88. His matchup against Babar Azam will be key as the Pakistani batter has a terrible record against left-arm seam in T20s this year: 60 balls, 37 runs, five dismissals.
Shadab Khan was impressive against Hobart Hurricanes, scoring 34 (24) and taking 2/36, resulting in 133 Dream11 points. He should enjoy conditions at ENGIE Stadium.
Jack Edwards has enjoyed an excellent start to the BBL 2025/26 season. The all-rounder has struck 78 runs at a strike rate of 185.71 and has picked up three wickets at a strike rate of 12.
Key bowler picks:
Ben Dwarshuis has 20 wickets against the Thunder at an average of 22.00 and economy of 7.59. He has an utterly dominant record against Daniel Sams, having dismissed him four times for 11 runs in 13 balls.
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
A typically slower surface should suit Babar Azam. But, bowlers will look to target his pull shot which has got him into trouble in recent T20s. Also, his matchup against left-arm seam is an issue.
Moises Henriques has a fine record against the Thunder (546 runs, avg. 42.00, SR 132.52) and on this ground (185 runs, avg. 37.00, SR 139.10).
Chris Green has just the 11 wickets in 19 innings against the Sixers. But, he has the second-most wickets on this ground (26) at a strike rate of 22.46.
Tanveer Sangha should find some grip off the surface. He concedes 6.18 per over in six innings at ENGIE Stadium (five wickets).
Kane Richardson has 18 wickets in 15 innings against the Thunder. He should bowl in the crunch overs here.
Sam Konstas missed out twice against the Sixers last season (nine runs) but he is capable of taking the bowlers on and making a score.
Both teams have won four games against each other on this ground.
Jack Edwards has taken six wickets in five innings against the Thunder at an average of 15.17 and economy of 6.07.
Jack Edwards has dismissed both Sam Konstas (11 balls, 4 runs) and David Warner (9 balls, 20 runs) once in T20s.
Ben Dwarshuis vs Cameron Bancroft in T20s: 48 balls, 53 runs, one wicket.
Ben Dwarshuis vs David Warner in T20s: 21 balls, 22 runs, no wicket.
Chris Green vs Daniel Hughes in T20s: 53 balls, 57 runs, one wicket.
Ben Dwarshuis vs Sam Billings in T20s: 15 balls, 24 runs, one wicket. Billings scored 15 runs off six balls against Dwarshuis last season.
Kane Richardson vs Daniel Sams in T20s: 29 balls, 54 runs, one wicket.
BBL 2025/26 7th Match: THU vs SIX 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 7th Match: THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today
Option 2:
BBL 2025/26 7th Match: THU vs SIX Dream11 Prediction Today
BBL 2025/26 7th Match: THU vs SIX Match Prediction – Who will win?
Sixers have a brilliant record against the Thunder. But, the Sixers are on shaky ground and the Thunder will believe they can win this match.
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.
Does anyone know what odds the Brisbane Heat were when Colin Munro was dismissed first ball chasing 258? We’d love to know.
The Heat have pulled off the highest run chase in Big Bash League (BBL) history – and third-highest overall in men’s T20 cricket – on an unbelievable night at the Gabba.
Perth Scorchers, led by Finn Allen and Cooper Connolly, took an ill-disciplined Heat attack to the cleaners. The Scorchers amassed 257/6 and it seemed unthinkable that anything other than a Perth win would happen especially as captain Nathan McSweeney rolled his ankle and hobbled off the field.
However, Matt Renshaw and Jack Wildermuth played the innings of their lives. Renshaw, caught early off a Jhye Richardson no ball, made the Scorchers pay the ultimate price as he smashed a magnificent 102 off 51 balls. Wildermuth, who came into the game with a batting average of 10.26 and highest score of 31, belted an unbeaten 54-ball 110 in scarcely believable scenes.
It is the first time ever that two players scored centuries in a BBL run chase. The duo combined for 212 runs off 93 balls in a wonderful exhibition of hitting. They each hit five fours and nine sixes as the Scorchers simply had no answers to the onslaught.
Reactions as Brisbane Heat pull off the highest ever BBL run chase
The Heat reached 100 after 7.5 overs as they maintained pace with the required run rate. They then sat at 131/1 at the halfway mark and the first over after drinks – 20 runs off Ashton Agar – made the Heat favourites. Renshaw provided the momentum and Wildermuth finished things off.
The 515 runs is easy the highest match aggregate in BBL history, going past 459 by Hurricanes against the Strikers. Also, 36 sixes is a BBL record, smashing the previous best of 26.
Here are some of the reactions to an unbelievable match.
HISTORY MADE! We can’t believe what we’ve just witnessed! 🤯
262 PBKS vs KKR, Kolkata 2024 259 South Africa vs West Indies, Centurion 2023 258 Brisbane Heat vs Perth Scorchers, Brisbane 2025* 253 Middlesex vs Surrey, The Oval 2023#BBL#BBL15pic.twitter.com/u9AUOlM0yU
#bbl15 tonight: – 2nd highest total in BBL history (twice) ✅️ – Highest match aggregate ever ✅️ – Highest second innings in BBL history ✅️ – Most sixes in a match ✅️ – Most sixes in an innings ✅️ – 1/11 bowlers had an economy lower than 10 ✅️
Brisbane Heat picked up their first victory of the BBL 2025/26 season in the process. Their next match is against Sydney Thunder in Canberra on Monday.
For Perth Scorchers, they have a week to regroup with their next game on Boxing Day against Hobart Hurricanes at home.
Australia have taken a huge step towards Ashes retention as Travis Head notched up his fourth hundred in his last four matches at the Adelaide Oval.
Head put England to the sword, taking advantage of the visitors’ inexplicable tactics of bowling to his cut shot early. His usual positive frame of mind was too much for a tired England to handle, racing to 99 which funnily enough was his most difficult period.
England brought the field up and Head was stuck on 99 for nine deliveries, which included a dropped catch by Harry Brook. Head then decided enough was enough, launching a Joe Root delivery back over his head to bring up three figures and draw a huge reaction from his beloved Adelaide fans.
The pain continued for England as Head and fellow South Australian Alex Carey combined for an unbeaten 122 off 29.1 overs. Carey was faultless, continuing his magnificent series after his first innings hundred and superb keeping, knocking the England bowlers around with consumate ease.
Ben Stokes didn’t bowl after batting for an extended period in the Adelaide heat. Jofra Archer also looked tired after his first innings exploits with bat and ball. Will Jacks, Josh Tongue and Brydon Carse were left to do the bulk of the work as Australia ran rampant to finish day three 356 runs ahead.
Fans react as Travis Head brings up another Test hundred at his beloved Adelaide Oval
Travis Head’s Test CV is excellent. He now has four Ashes hundreds to go with a player of the series award in 2021/22. He also has a WTC Final hundred, crucial BGT tons and who could forget his 92 on arguably the spiciest Gabba pitch ever seen.
A glimpse of Travis Head's CV in Test cricket:
4 Ashes hundreds Ashes MOTS award WTC Final hundred Crucial BGT tons 92 vs SA on spiciest Gabba deck
And that's all before we talk about his white-ball CV.
“Moving Travis Head to open the batting in Test Cricket will be looked at one of the BEST decisions. Another great knock by him today,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter).
“Has there even been a more popular South Australian loved universally in the state as Travis Head. It really is his kingdom.” wrote another.
The ghost at No.5 haunted Australia for 5 years after Adam Voges retired, during which they auditioned Matthew Wade, Shaun Marsh, Matt Renshaw, Peter Handscomb & even Glenn Maxwell without success…
Australia will begin day four at 271/4 with visions of a 500+ run lead. Some rain is possible on day five, so it will be interesting to see the home team’s approach tomorrow.
Cameron Green’s place in the Australian Test team is again under the spotlight, with fans calling for the all-rounder to be dropped after a disappointing display with the bat.
Green, who threw his wickets away despite looking promising in Perth and Brisbane, was out in tame fashion on the first day in Adelaide. With Australia tottering at 94/3, Green chipped a Jofra Archer delivery that was gleefully snapped up by a diving Brydon Carse at midwicket.
The second innings was another nervous start. His first ball was a nice cover drive against the incosnsistent Will Jacks, but loose strokeplay against Josh Tongue saw his downfall. After leaving a delivery, Green then drove and missed the next, before nicking off playing another loose drive.
“The reason he’s nicked it is because his weight is on the backfoot,” said Ricky Ponting on Channel 7. “His backfoot also goes to leg stump.”
Calls grow louder for Cameron Green to be dropped and replaced by Beau Webster
Green now averages just 28.62 in home Tests. This is the lowest of any Australian batter who has batted at least 20 times in the last 41 years. He is also averaging just 21.9 overall in his last 15 Tests.
Cameron Green averages 28.62 in home Tests, the lowest figure by an Australian batter across the last 41 years (minimum 20 innings).#Ashes
Beau Webster, who was harshly left out of the team for the Ashes, has played a number of important innings in his seven Tests, played largely on tricky batting pitches.
Green’s bowling, where he can touch speeds of 145km/h, is a key reason why he is selected over Webster. Green was terrific with the ball in England’s first innings, but his batting returns are cause for significant concern.
He’s not good enough, they dropped Konstas to get some form in the shield they should do the same to green and play Webster. Let Green get some confidence up
Green’s dismissal came soon after Usman Khawaja edged a short, wide delivery from Will Jacks. Australia fell to 149/4 at that stage, but Travis Head and Alex Carey settled things with a solid partnership.
