Hobart Hurricanes kicked off their BBL|15 campaign in style, defeating Sydney Thunder by four wickets in the third match of the season at Bellerive Oval, Hobart, on Tuesday.
Chasing a competitive target of 181, the Hurricanes showed composure and depth to get over the line with one ball to spare.
Sydney Thunder post 180, thanks to valuable knocks from Cameron Bancroft and Shadab Khan
Sydney Thunder were given a flying start by Matthew Gilkes, who smashed a rapid 20 off just 7 balls, but his innings ended abruptly when Billy Stanlake struck early. Stanlake continued to apply pressure, removing Sam Konstas (28) and later dismissing Cameron Bancroft, who top-scored with a composed 61 off 44 balls.
Thunder briefly wobbled in the middle overs as Chris Jordan struck twice in quick succession, removing Sam Billings and Oliver Davies.
An absolute beauty from Chris Jordan demolishes the middle stump! 💥 #GoldenMoment pic.twitter.com/OOtiiwbzmj
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 16, 2025
However, Shadab Khan (34 off 24) and Daniel Sams (23 not out off 11) steadied the innings and provided late acceleration.
The visitors finished with a strong flourish, reaching 180/6, though Hobart’s disciplined bowling -led by Stanlake’s 3/34 – ensured the total stayed within reach.
Hobart Hurricanes’ top-order sets the tone in the chase
Mitchell Owen and Nikhil Chaudhary provide early momentum
Hobart’s chase began aggressively, with Mitchell Owen launching a blistering 32 off 14 balls, including seven boundaries, to dominate the powerplay. After Owen’s dismissal, Nikhil Chaudhary took control, playing a crucial knock of 41 off 31 balls, anchoring the innings through the middle overs.
Ben McDermott added momentum with an entertaining 38 off 24, while the Hurricanes maintained a healthy run rate, keeping the required rate in check despite regular wickets.
Gone! McDermott launches it out of there and a replacement ball is called 🚀 #BBL15 pic.twitter.com/B1Oay3PIpN
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 16, 2025
Tim David and Wade provide late push
The Hurricanes’ middle order ensured there was no panic during the chase. Tim David contributed a quick 17 off 9, while wicketkeeper Matthew Wade chipped in with a valuable 25 off 16, combining aggression with smart strike rotation.
Though Shadab Khan briefly brought Thunder back into the contest with two wickets, Hobart remained calm as the finish approached.
Chris Jordan and Nathan Ellis finish the Job for Hurricanes
With the pressure mounting in the final overs, Chris Jordan (16 not out off 13) and captain Nathan Ellis (5 not out off 8) held their nerve to guide Hobart home. Jordan’s calm presence proved decisive as the Hurricanes crossed the line at 181/6 in 19.5 overs, sealing a four-wicket victory.
For Sydney Thunder, Shadab (2/36) and Chris Green (1/33) were the standout bowlers, but the total proved just short on a good batting surface.
Defending champions Hobart Hurricanes open their account with a win 🙂#cricket #HHvST #BBL15 pic.twitter.com/oyl08pfRex
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 16, 2025
