The third match of the Big Bash League 2025-26 pits defending champions Hobart Hurricanes against runners-up Sydney Thunder in a blockbuster grand final rematch at Bellerive Oval, Hobart, on December 16, 2025. Toss-up at 4:15 PM local time (7:15 PM local start, 1:45 AM IST December 17). This early-season clash carries massive weight as both teams hunt a strong opening to build momentum toward the playoffs.
Bellerive Oval offers a balanced surface where pacers grab early seam movement in the powerplay, but batters settle as the ball softens amid true bounce and short boundaries—average first innings score around 149-165. Warm, humid conditions prevail with just a 10% rain chance, setting up a full game.
Head-to-Head Record
Hobart Hurricanes lead Sydney Thunder 14-8 across 22 BBL meetings, with no ties. Hurricanes boast a dominant run, winning the last four encounters including the BBL 2024-25 final by seven wickets—Thunder posted 150/8, chased down comfortably. Last five: HUR 4 wins, THU 1.
Team Analysis: Hobart Hurricanes
Defending champs Hurricanes carry momentum from their title-winning campaign, where Mitchell Owen smashed 452 runs and Riley Meredith snared 16 wickets. Strengths lie in explosive middle-order hitters like Tim David (recent T20I fireworks at No.4/5) and a deep pace attack featuring Nathan Ellis (captain), Chris Jordan, and Meredith. Weaknesses? Spin depth tested early, but Rehan Ahmed and Rishad Hossain add variety. Key players: Owen for match-winning knocks, Ellis for death-over control—expect them to thrive at home.
Team Analysis: Sydney Thunder
Runners-up Thunder seek revenge after last season’s final heartbreak, powered by David Warner’s 405 runs and Chris Green’s 12 wickets. Batting firepower from Warner, Sam Billings, and Nic Maddinson (cancer comeback story) pairs with all-round stars Shadab Khan, Green, and Daniel Sams, plus pace from Lockie Ferguson (if available) and Wes Agar. Inconsistencies in top-order pressure moments linger as a flaw. Key men: Warner to anchor, Green for spin mastery—vital for an upset push.
BBL 2025 Live Streaming Info:
BBL 2025 matches stream live across multiple platforms depending on your location. In Australia, catch free-to-air coverage on Seven Network and 7plus for select games, with full access via Fox Cricket on pay TV or Kayo Sports streaming.
Viewing in India
Star Sports Network broadcasts all matches live on TV, while JioHotstar provides streaming on app and website—requires subscription for uninterrupted access.
Global Options
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UK: Sky Sports Cricket on TV, Sky Go or NOW TV for streaming
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USA/Canada: Willow TV broadcast and app
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Pakistan: Ten Sports on TV
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New Zealand: Sky Sport NZ and Sky Sport Now
No free global streams exist beyond Australia’s select free games; subscriptions ensure HD quality with replays.
How to Watch the Match for Free:
To watch the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 matches for free, fans in Australia can tune in to Channel 7, which broadcasts every match live and free. Additionally, viewers can stream the games digitally at no cost on 7Plus
Live Streaming Info:
FOX Cricket will be live: HH vs ST
Live Score Info:
Cricket lovers can watch the Hobart Hurricanes vs Sydney Thunder live score from this website: www.espncricinfo.com
Hobart Hurricanes vs Sydney Thunder
Playing XI:
Hobart Hurricanes Probable XI: Mitch Owen, Tim Ward, Nikhil Chaudhary, Ben McDermott (wk), Tim David, Matthew Wade, Rehan Ahmed, Chris Jordan, Nathan Ellis (c), Riley Meredith, Rishad Hossain.
Sydney Thunder Probable XI: David Warner (c), Sam Konstas, Cameron Bancroft, Ollie Davies, Sam Billings (wk), Chris Green, Nathan McAndrew, Ryan Hadley, Reece Topley, Tanveer Sangha, and Shadab Khan.