SS vs HUR, Big Bash League 2026: Sydney Sixers vs Hobart Hurricanes Match Preview, Pitch Report, Probable XI & Fantasy Tips

The Big Bash League 2026 action shifts to the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground, where Sydney Sixers face the in-form Hobart Hurricanes in a high-octane clash. Both sides are coming off strong performances, making this contest a must-watch for fans and fantasy players alike. With power hitters, pace-heavy bowling attacks, and all-rounders in red-hot form, getting your fantasy combination right will be crucial for climbing the Mega League leaderboard.

Match Details

• Match: Sydney Sixers vs Hobart Hurricanes (SS vs HUR)
• Date: 23 January 2026
• Time: 1:45 PM IST | 7:30 PM Local Time
• Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney

Weather Report – Sydney

Sydney is expected to witness a classic summer evening:

• Temperature: 24°C – 26°C
• Humidity: Around 65%
• Rain: No threat
• Dew Factor: Likely in the second innings, aiding chasing teams

A full uninterrupted match is expected.

Pitch Report & Venue Stats – SCG Analysis

The SCG has turned into a batting-friendly venue in recent matches, but fast bowlers are enjoying plenty of success.

• Average 1st Innings Score (Last 5 matches): 173 runs

• Pace vs Spin Wickets:

  • Pacers: 45 wickets
  • Spinners: 15 wickets

Pitch Insight: While traditionally spin-friendly, recent data shows pacers dominating. Bowlers who hit the deck hard and extract bounce are reaping rewards, making fast bowlers vital fantasy picks.

Recent Form & Head-to-Head

• Sydney Sixers: L W W A W
• Hobart Hurricanes: W L A W W

Both teams have won 3 of their last 5 completed matches, indicating a balanced contest. The recent head-to-head record is also evenly poised at 4-4.

Key Players to Watch

• Steven Smith (Sixers): In sensational form with a recent century followed by scores of 54 and 37 – safest fantasy captain
• Beau Webster (Hurricanes): Fantasy MVP with an average of 90+ points, contributes with bat and ball
• Jack Edwards (Sixers): Elite all-rounder, 17 wickets in the series with a 93+ fantasy average
• Nikhil Chaudhary (Hurricanes): Consistent middle-order run-getter with 303 runs this season
• Mitchell Starc (Sixers): Lethal with pace and bounce, ideal pick on this surface
• Riley Meredith (Hurricanes): Express speedster with 11 wickets, thrives on bouncy tracks

Fantasy Picks & Combinations

Safe Picks (Small Leagues)

• Steven Smith
• Beau Webster
• Jack Edwards

Differential Picks (Mega Leagues)

• Nikhil Chaudhary
• Mitchell Starc
• Ben McDermott

Captaincy & Vice-Captaincy Options

• Safe C/VC: Steven Smith, Beau Webster, Jack Edwards
• High-Risk C/VC: Mitchell Starc, Nikhil Chaudhary

Fantasy Strategy & Tips

1. Back the Pacers: With 45 wickets for fast bowlers, seamers like Starc, Meredith, and Dwarshuis are must-picks
2. Top-Order Focus: Batters like Smith, Philippe, and McDermott will face the most deliveries on a high-scoring SCG pitch
3. All-Rounder Advantage: Players such as Webster and Edwards provide a safety net with dual contributions

Probable Playing XIs (One-Line Format)

Sydney Sixers: Josh Philippe (wk), Steven Smith, Daniel Hughes, Moises Henriques, Lachlan Shaw, Jack Edwards, Joel Davies, Ben Dwarshuis, Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc, Todd Murphy

Hobart Hurricanes: Mitchell Owen, Tim Ward, Beau Webster, Ben McDermott (wk), Nikhil Chaudhary, Matthew Wade, Chris Jordan, Will Prestwidge, Riley Meredith, Rishad Hossain, Billy Stanlake

Final XIs subject to toss and official team announcements.

Final Word

Expect a high-scoring thriller with pacers dominating key moments. Toss, dew, and death-over bowling could decide the outcome. Lock your fantasy teams wisely and keep an eye on last-minute updates.