Heat and Sixers Clash in Final Regular Season Showdown for Finals Berth
SYDNEY, 18 January 2026 – The final piece of the KFC BBL|15 finals puzzle will be determined tonight as the Brisbane Heat host the Sydney Sixers at the Gabba. The winner of the match will secure fourth place and a finals berth, setting up a showdown with the Perth Scorchers in the Qualifier.
Sudden-Death Scenario
The equation is simple for both sides: win and you’re in. A victory for the Sydney Sixers would see them leapfrog the Brisbane Heat into fourth position on the ladder with 13 points. A win for the Heat would see them finish on 12 points, but their superior net run rate would see them hold fourth spot ahead of the Melbourne Stars, who have completed their regular season. The loser’s campaign will be over.
The match caps off a dramatic final week of the regular season, which saw the Perth Scorchers secure top spot with a commanding win over the Melbourne Stars last night. The Hobart Hurricanes, as defending champions, have already qualified in second position.
Recent Form and Key Performers
Both teams head into the clash with momentum. The Sixers are buoyed by Steve Smith’s spectacular 41-ball century against the Sydney Thunder earlier this week, an innings that included a record-equalling nine sixes. Opener Babar Azam has provided consistent starts throughout the tournament.
The Heat, led by the batting of Matt Renshaw, have shown they can post and chase big totals. Their bowling attack, featuring the experience of players like Michael Neser, will be crucial in containing the Sixers’ powerful top order.
BBL|15 Finals Schedule Confirmed
With the top three positions locked in, the finals fixture is now set. The Perth Scorchers have earned the right to host the Qualifier on Tuesday 20 January. The loser of that match will get a second chance in the Challenger on Friday 23 January.
The Hobart Hurricanes, finishing second, will host the Knockout match on Wednesday 21 January against whichever team finishes fourth. The winner of the Knockout will travel to face the loser of the Qualifier in the Challenger, with a spot in the Grand Final on Sunday 25 January at stake.
League Standings (As of 18 January 2026)
| Team | Played | Won | Points | Net Run Rate | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perth Scorchers | 10 | 7 | 14 | +1.363 | Qualified (1st) |
| Hobart Hurricanes | 10 | 6 | 13 | +0.331 | Qualified (2nd) |
| Melbourne Stars | 10 | 6 | 12 | +0.759 | Qualified (3rd) |
| Brisbane Heat | 9 | 5 | 10 | -0.375 | Playing for 4th |
| Sydney Sixers | 9 | 5 | 11 | +0.566 | Playing for 4th |
| Adelaide Strikers | 10 | 4 | 8 | -0.231 | Eliminated |
| Melbourne Renegades | 10 | 3 | 6 | -1.202 | Eliminated |
| Sydney Thunder | 10 | 2 | 4 | -1.212 | Eliminated |
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the Brisbane Heat vs Sydney Sixers match start?
The match is scheduled to begin at 1:45 pm (local time) on Sunday 18 January at the Gabba, Brisbane.
Who will the winner play in the finals?
The winner of tonight’s match will finish fourth and travel to Perth to face the top-ranked Perth Scorchers in the Qualifier on Tuesday 20 January.
Where can I watch the BBL finals?
All finals matches will be broadcast live on the Seven Network and Fox Cricket in Australia, and available for streaming on Kayo Sports.