The Big Bash League action heads to the beautiful Bellerive Oval in Hobart as the Hurricanes (HUR) prepare to host the Sydney Thunder (THU). Both teams have some explosive talent, and this contest promises to be a cracker for fantasy cricket fans. Let’s dive into the match analysis, pitch report, and player insights to help you build your winning teams on AI11.
Match Details
- Match: Hurricanes vs Thunder
- Venue: Bellerive Oval, Hobart
- Date & Time: December 16, 2025, 08:15 AM UTC
- Format: T20
Pitch Report: Bellerive Oval
Historically, Hobart is known for aiding pacers and offering true bounce for batters. However, recent data suggests a shift. In the last 5 matches here, the Average Score is 148, which indicates a battle between bat and ball.
Surprisingly, Spinners have taken 29 wickets compared to Pacers with 27 wickets in the recent sample. This means you cannot ignore quality tweakers in your fantasy lineups. The floodlights might help the ball skid on later, but early on, there could be some grip.
Team Analysis: Hobart Hurricanes
The Hurricanes are playing at home and will look to leverage their local knowledge. Their batting relies heavily on the experienced Matthew Wade and Ben McDermott. McDermott is a BBL beast and loves scoring at this venue. Tim David remains the designated finisher, capable of changing the game in the last 4 overs.
On the bowling front, Nathan Ellis is a mandatory pick due to his death over skills. With the pitch showing support for spin, the inclusion of Rehan Ahmed or Rishad Hossain could be a masterstroke. Riley Meredith brings the raw pace to unsettle the top order.
Team Analysis: Sydney Thunder
Sydney Thunder comes into this game with some solid recent performances. David Warner at the top is always a threat and can take the game away in the powerplay. Sam Billings adds stability and innovation in the middle order.
For fantasy purposes, Daniel Sams is often the MVP. His ability to pick up wickets in the death overs and score quick runs makes him a complete package. Nathan McAndrew has been in wicket taking form recently (5 wickets in a recent game against Stars), and Tanveer Sangha will be licking his lips looking at the spin stats at this venue.
Top Fantasy Picks for AI11
1. Daniel Sams A true all rounder who contributes in every department. He bowls the difficult overs and bats in the middle lower order. He is a safe choice for your teams.
2. Nathan Ellis Ellis is a specialist when it comes to the death overs. His variations make him a prime candidate for picking up 2-3 wickets, especially if the Hurricanes bowl first.
3. David Warner The veteran opener knows Australian conditions better than anyone. If he gets going, he scores big fantasy points through boundaries.
4. Ben McDermott A consistent run scorer for the Hurricanes. He anchors the innings and accelerates when needed. A solid choice for the wicket keeper slot.
5. Tanveer Sangha With the pitch offering assistance to spinners (29 wickets in last 5 games), Sangha becomes a crucial differential pick to break partnerships.
Captaincy & Vice Captaincy Options
- Safe C/VC: Daniel Sams, Nathan Ellis
- Risky/Differential C/VC: David Warner, Ben McDermott, Shadab Khan
Winning Strategy
Given the average score is around 148, this might not be a 200+ run fest. Focus on bowlers who bowl at the death (Ellis, Sams, Jordan) and all rounders who can contribute with both bat and ball. Don't ignore the spinners; fitting in at least two quality spinners could be the difference in your contest rank today.
Good luck with your teams! Make sure to check the final lineups after the toss before locking in your contests.
