Sixers and Hurricanes Clash in BBL|15 Sudden-Death Challenger
SYDNEY, 23 January 2026 – The path to the KFC BBL|15 championship narrows to a single, high-stakes match tonight as the Sydney Sixers host the defending champion Hobart Hurricanes in the Challenger final. The victor will book a date with the Perth Scorchers in Sunday’s season decider at a sold-out Optus Stadium.
The Road to the Challenger
The finals series has delivered drama from the outset. The Perth Scorchers secured their place in the grand final and priceless hosting rights with a commanding 48-run victory over the Sydney Sixers in Tuesday’s Qualifier. A day later, the Hobart Hurricanes kept their title defence alive, defeating the Melbourne Stars by three runs via the DLS method in a rain-affected Knockout in Hobart.
This sets the stage for tonight’s sudden-death clash at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The Sixers, boasting the returning star power of Steve Smith and Mitchell Starc, have a second chance at glory after their Qualifier loss. Standing in their way are the Hurricanes, who must win three consecutive finals to lift the trophy again.
BBL|15 Finals Schedule & Key Details
| Match | Details | Result/Status |
|---|---|---|
| The Qualifier | Perth Scorchers vs Sydney Sixers 20 January, Optus Stadium | Scorchers won by 48 runs |
| The Knockout | Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Stars 21 January, Blundstone Arena | Hurricanes won by 3 runs (DLS) |
| The Challenger | Sydney Sixers vs Hobart Hurricanes 23 January, 7:15 pm AEDT, SCG | Tonight’s Match |
| The Final | Perth Scorchers vs Challenger Winner 25 January, 7:15 pm AEDT, Optus Stadium | Sunday’s Decider |
Scorchers Await Amid Ticket Frenzy
Perth’s victory in the Qualifier has triggered a rush for tickets to Sunday’s final. The first public allocation for the Optus Stadium decider sold out in just 34 minutes, with all remaining tickets to be released at 10am AWST on Saturday. The Scorchers will be aiming to eclipse their record home crowd of 53,886 set during the BBL|12 final.
League executive Alistair Dobson said the demand was another indicator of the enormous interest in the competition this season, which is on track to welcome over one million fans through the gates.
How to Watch
Every match of the BBL|15 finals series is broadcast live in Australia on the Seven Network, 7plus, Fox Cricket, and Kayo Sports. Live radio coverage is available via ABC and SEN.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the BBL Qualifier?
The Perth Scorchers defeated the Sydney Sixers by 48 runs at Optus Stadium on Tuesday 20 January, securing a direct place in the Final.
Who won the BBL Knockout?
The Hobart Hurricanes defeated the Melbourne Stars by three runs (DLS method) at Blundstone Arena on Wednesday 21 January, advancing to the Challenger.
Who will the Perth Scorchers play in the Final?
The Scorchers will face the winner of tonight’s Challenger final between the Sydney Sixers and the Hobart Hurricanes.
When and where is the BBL|15 Final?
The Final will be played at Optus Stadium in Perth on Sunday 25 January, with the first ball at 7:15 pm AEDT (4:15 pm local time). A reserve day is scheduled for Monday 26 January.