HUR vs THU BBL 2025-26, Pitch Report, Head to Head, Playing 11, AI Prediction

Hobart Hurricanes will take on Sydney Thunder in the 3rd match of the Big Bash League (BBL) T20 2025-26 at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart on 16th December. The Hurricanes, led by Nathan Ellis, will begin their title defence against a competitive Sydney Thunder side featuring a strong mix of experience and youth.

Match Details: HUR vs THU

Detail	Information
Series	Big Bash League T20 2025-26
Match	Hobart Hurricanes vs Sydney Thunder, Match 3
Date	16th December 2025
Time	1:45 PM IST
Venue	Bellerive Oval
City	Hobart
Toss	To be updated
Live Streaming	Fancode, JioHotstar

Match Preview

Defending champions Hobart Hurricanes will be eager to start their campaign on a winning note. They have retained most of their core players from last season and added a few exciting names to further strengthen the squad. With power hitters like Tim David, Matthew Wade and Ben McDermott, along with a potent bowling attack led by Nathan Ellis and Riley Meredith, Hobart look well balanced in all departments.

Sydney Thunder, on the other hand, enter the season with renewed confidence and a strong squad. Although David Warner is expected to play a leadership role this season, Chris Green remains a key figure on the field. The Thunder lineup features experienced campaigners such as Sam Billings, Daniel Sams and Cameron Bancroft, while youngsters like Sam Konstas will be keen to make an impact. Overseas stars Shadab Khan and Reece Topley add valuable depth to both batting and bowling.

Head-to-Head Record: HUR vs THU

Team	Matches Won
Hobart Hurricanes (HUR)	6
Sydney Thunder (THU)	4
No Result	0

Hobart Hurricanes have a narrow edge over Sydney Thunder in past encounters.

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Weather & Pitch Report – Bellerive Oval, Hobart

Weather Report: The weather in Hobart is expected to be sunny with temperatures around 15°C. There is no rain forecast, which means conditions should remain ideal for a full 40-over contest.
Pitch Report: Bellerive Oval is known as a batter-friendly venue. The pitch offers good bounce and carry, making stroke play easier, while bowlers often find limited assistance. Short square boundaries further boost scoring opportunities, and teams batting first generally look to post totals around the 170-run mark.

Probable Playing 11

Hobart Hurricanes (HUR) Playing 11:

1. Mitch Owen, 2. Macalister Wright, 3. Nikhil Chaudhary, 4. Ben McDermott, 5. Tim David, 6. Matthew Wade (wk), 7. Rehan Ahmed, 8. Chris Jordan, 9. Nathan Ellis (c), 10. Riley Meredith, 11. Rishad Hossain

Sydney Thunder (THU) Playing 11

1. Matt Gilkes, 2. Sam Konstas, 3. Cameron Bancroft, 4. Ollie Davies, 5. Sam Billings (wk), 6. Chris Green (c), 7. Nathan McAndrew, 8. Reece Topley, 9. Daniel Sams, 10. Tanveer Sangha, 11. Shadab Khan

Who Will Win Today’s Match? (AI Prediction)

Hobart Hurricanes start as slight favourites in this clash due to their home advantage and settled combination. Their batting depth and proven bowling unit make them a tough side to beat at Bellerive Oval.

Sydney Thunder certainly have the firepower to challenge the defending champions, especially if their top order clicks early. However, considering overall balance and recent form, Hobart hold the edge.

AI Prediction: Hobart Hurricanes are likely to win Match 3 of the Big Bash League T20 2025-26.

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