Hurricanes Captain Ellis Out for Challenger Cup
The Hobart Hurricanes have been dealt a significant blow as captain Nathan Ellis will miss the crucial Challenger Cup match against the Sydney Sixers due to a hamstring injury. This marks his second consecutive absence in the Big Bash League (BBL) season, following his missed appearance in the recent knockout game against the Melbourne Stars.
Nathan Ellis Ruled Out
Ellis, aged 31, was initially named in a 14-player squad after traveling to Sydney. However, just hours before the match, the club confirmed his withdrawal due to ongoing issues with his hamstring. The injury is not expected to affect his inclusion in Australia’s upcoming T20 World Cup campaign.
Replacement and Team Adjustments
Charlie Wakim will replace Ellis in the squad, while Ben McDermott is expected to take over the captaincy. The Hurricanes will also rely on fast bowler Billy Stanlake, who contributed in the last match after being brought into the lineup.
Squad Information
The lineup for the Challenger fixture is as follows:
- Hobart Hurricanes: Jackson Bird, Nikhil Chaudhary, Rishad Hossain, Chris Jordan, Ben McDermott (c), Riley Meredith, Mitch Owen, Will Prestwidge, Billy Stanlake, Matthew Wade, Tim Ward, Beau Webster, Charlie Wakim, Mac Wright
- Sydney Sixers: Sean Abbott, Joel Davies, Ben Dwarshuis, Jack Edwards, Moises Henriques (c), Daniel Hughes, Hayden Kerr, Ben Manenti, Mitch Perry, Josh Philippe, Lachlan Shaw, Jordan Silk, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc
Upcoming Schedule
The winner of today’s Challenger Cup will progress to meet the Perth Scorchers in the BBL|15 final, set to take place at Optus Stadium.
| Match | Date | Time (AEDT) |
|---|---|---|
| Challenger: Sydney Sixers vs Hobart Hurricanes | January 23 | 7:15 PM |
| Final: Perth Scorchers vs Winner of Challenger | January 25 | 7:15 PM |
| Reserve Day for Final | January 26 | 7:15 PM |
As injuries accumulate, the Hurricanes hope to perform strongly in the Challenger Cup despite the setback, aiming for a chance at BBL glory.
