BBL 2025/26 Match 19 Preview: Hobart Hurricanes vs Perth Scorchers

Date: Thursday, 1st January 2026
Time: 08:15 AM GMT (01:45 PM IST | 07:15 PM Local)
Venue: Bellerive Oval, Hobart

Match Overview

The 19th match of the Big Bash League 2025/26 promises an electrifying clash between two in-form teams: the Hobart Hurricanes and the Perth Scorchers. The Hurricanes, riding on a strong start to the season with four wins from five games, will be eager to maintain their momentum at home. Meanwhile, the Scorchers, coming off a thrilling 71-run victory over the Sydney Thunder, will aim to continue their resurgence under captain Ashton Turner.

The Bellerive Oval has historically been a batting-friendly venue, with average first-innings scores rising from 142 in 2022 to a formidable 172 in 2025. With a win percentage of 67% for teams chasing, the toss could be pivotal in shaping the match outcome.

Team Form and Key Players

Hobart Hurricanes

The Hurricanes are in excellent form, having won their last match against the Melbourne Renegades by 4 wickets. Matthew Wade (43 off 20) and Nathan Ellis (3 wickets) were instrumental in that victory.

Key Players:

• Nikhil Chaudhary – The explosive opener has already scored 180 runs in five games at an average of 36.
• Rishad Hossain – A match-winner with his left-arm spin, taking 8 wickets at an average of 17.37.
• Nathan Ellis (C) – The captain has been in scintillating form, taking 7 wickets in a recent match and leading the team with composure.

Perth Scorchers

The Scorchers have found their rhythm with two wins in four games. Their recent 71-run victory over the Thunder was powered by a blistering 99* from captain Ashton Turner and a strong all-round bowling effort.

Key Players:

• Cooper Connolly – A versatile all-rounder who has contributed 170 runs and 5 wickets so far.
• Ashton Turner (C) – The captain has been in scintillating form, scoring 135 runs in four innings at a high strike rate.
• Joel Paris – A key bowler who has taken 5 wickets at an average of 23.8.

Head-to-Head

In their last five encounters, the Hobart Hurricanes have held the edge with 3 wins to the Scorchers' 2. This historical dominance, combined with the home advantage, could give the Hurricanes a psychological boost.

Venue Insights

Bellerive Oval has been a consistent performer for batters in recent years:

• Average First Innings Score (2022–2025): 172.00
• Winning Percentage (Chasing): 67%
• Wickets Per Innings:
  • First Innings: 6.94
  • Second Innings: 5.39

The pitch is expected to offer some early assistance to fast bowlers, but it will settle into a batting paradise. Spinners are likely to find turn in the middle overs, making all-rounders a key asset.

Probable Playing XI

Hobart Hurricanes

1. Ben McDermott
2. Matthew Wade (wk)
3. Mitchell Owen
4. Nikhil Chaudhary
5. Tim Ward
6. Beau Webster
7. Tim David
8. Nathan Ellis (c)
9. Rishad Hossain
10. Riley Meredith
11. Chris Jordan

Perth Scorchers

1. Finn Allen
2. Josh Inglis (wk)
3. Laurie Evans
4. Ashton Turner (c)
5. Mitchell Marsh
6. Cooper Connolly
7. Aaron Hardie
8. Ashton Agar
9. Mahli Beardman
10. Joel Paris
11. Brody Couch

Match Predictions

• Toss Winner: Perth Scorchers
• Match Winner: Hobart Hurricanes
• Top Batsman: Nikhil Chaudhary (HUR), Cooper Connolly (SCO)
• Top Bowler: Rishad Hossain (HUR), Mahli Beardman (SCO)
• Most Sixes: Nikhil Chaudhary (HUR), Cooper Connolly (SCO)
• Player of the Match: Nikhil Chaudhary (HUR)
• Team Scores:
  • Hobart Hurricanes: 170+
  • Perth Scorchers: 160+

Fantasy Cricket Picks

Dream11 Team Composition

• Batsmen (4): Mitchell Owen, Beau Webster, Finn Allen, Ashton Turner
• All-rounders (3): Nikhil Chaudhary, Cooper Connolly, Nathan Ellis (C)
• Wicket-keeper: Matthew Wade
• Bowlers (3): Chris Jordan, Mahli Beardman, Joel Paris

Captain & Vice-Captain

• Captain: Mitchell Owen
• Vice-Captain: Cooper Connolly

Live Streaming and Updates

The match will be live-streamed on JioHotstar, with highlights and score updates available on Possible11.com or the app.

Final Thoughts

This match promises a high-scoring contest, with both teams boasting explosive lineups and strong all-round depth. While the Hurricanes have the home advantage and a slight edge in head-to-head, the Scorchers’ firepower and recent form make them a dangerous opponent. The toss will be crucial, and whoever bats second could have the upper hand.

Excitement is in the air. Let the battle begin.
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