Sat Jan 03 07:40:00 UTC 2026: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thunder Desperate for Victory Against Reigning Champs as Maddinson Returns
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – The Sydney Thunder, currently languishing at the bottom of the BBL|15 standings with a 1-4 record, face a crucial match against the reigning champions, the Hobart Hurricanes, at Engie Stadium this Saturday. A loss would push the Thunder closer to “season-over territory,” making this a must-win game to reignite their campaign.
The Thunder welcome back Wes Agar and, potentially, Nic Maddinson, who is in line to make his first appearance for the team since joining from the Sixers, Stars, and Renegades. Maddinson’s return is particularly significant, marking his comeback after recovering from a broken thumb and subsequent chemotherapy for testicular cancer. Blake Nikitaras has been dropped, while Reece Topley is unavailable due to commitments in the SA20 league.
Meanwhile, the Hobart Hurricanes (4-2) are sitting comfortably in the top four despite a recent loss to the Scorchers. They have made one change to their squad, with Will Prestwidge replacing Hugo Burdon. Key players to watch for the Hurricanes include Nikhil Chaudhary, their leading run-scorer with 211 runs, and captain Nathan Ellis. For the Thunder, Pakistan leg-spinner Shadab Khan will be crucial, after performing well in the earlier Thunder v Hurricanes clash, taking two wickets and crashing 34 runs..
Match Details:
- Who: Sydney Thunder vs. Hobart Hurricanes
- What: Match 21, KFC BBL|15
- Where: Engie Stadium, Sydney
- When: Saturday, January 3. Bat flip at 6.30pm AEDT, first ball at 7.15pm AEDT
- How to Watch: Fox Cricket, Kayo Sports
- Listen: ABC, SEN Radio, Cricket Radio (CA Live app)
Tickets are available online, and live scores and match updates can be found on cricket.com.au and the CA Live and Big Bash apps.
First Piper 