Big Bash League 2025-26

Brisbane Heat vs Sydney Sixers, 40th Match

Sunday, January 18, 2026
01:45 PM IST
Brisbane Heat

Brisbane Heat

vs
Sydney Sixers

Sydney Sixers

Match Prediction

The upcoming 40th match of the Big Bash League 2025-26 promises an exciting contest between Brisbane Heat and Sydney Sixers at The Gabba. Both teams have shown competitive form this season. Brisbane Heat have bounced back strongly after a shaky start, with their batting lineup gaining momentum and their pace attack finding rhythm on home soil. Sydney Sixers, traditionally one of the most balanced sides in the tournament, continue to rely on their experienced core and strategic field placements. The Heat’s recent victories were bolstered by consistent contributions from their middle order and disciplined bowling spells, while the Sixers have thrived on aggressive top-order batting combined with skilled death-over bowling. Head-to-head, the Sixers hold a slight advantage, especially in Gabba conditions where their ability to adapt to the pitch has given them the edge. Key players like Brisbane’s hard-hitting opener and their strike bowler remain crucial, while Sydney’s allrounders and power hitters drive their campaigns. Strategically, Brisbane is likely to focus on consolidating in the powerplay and aggressively targeting the middle overs, while the Sixers will probably leverage their experience to exploit any loose bowling and use spin options effectively. Given the home advantage and recent upward trajectory, Brisbane Heat appear marginal favorites heading into this clash.

AI suggested match winner: Brisbane Heat: 55%, Sydney Sixers: 45%

Score Prediction

If Brisbane Heat bat first, considering the typical Gabba pitch that offers good bounce and carries throughout the innings, they could post a competitive total in the range of 165-175. Their batting depth allows them to accelerate in the back end. Conversely, if Sydney Sixers take first strike, their technically proficient top order and ability to build partnerships suggest they could aim for a similar target around 160-170. Both teams will look to capitalize on the fast outfield and expected clear skies to post or chase totals comfortably north of 160 runs, making it a potentially close and high-scoring encounter.

The Gabba - Pitch Report

The Gabba’s pitch traditionally offers pace and bounce with a consistent carry, favouring batsmen who can utilize the fast outfield. Average first-innings scores here hover around 165 runs in T20 matches of the Big Bash League. Chasing teams have a slight advantage with a win percentage of approximately 55%, thanks to predictable pitch conditions and usually stable weather. The forecast for January 18, 2026, indicates clear skies with temperatures around 28°C and low humidity, ideal for cricket. Among these two teams, Brisbane Heat’s premier fast bowler has delivered best bowling figures of 4/22 at The Gabba, while Sydney Sixers’ top batsman holds the record for the highest individual score of 87 runs on this ground. These records underscore the home advantage for the Heat’s bowling and the Sixers’ batting prowess here.
Our betting tips for this match
Back Brisbane Heat to win given their strong home form and recent momentum.
Consider over 160.5 runs for the first innings as batting conditions are batsman-friendly.
Bet on the top-order batsman from Sydney Sixers to be the highest scorer; he's in excellent touch.

Brisbane Heat vs Sydney Sixers - Head to Head Record in T20

Matches PlayedBrisbane Heat WinsSydney Sixers WinsDraw/No Result
2511131

Team Recent Performance

TeamLast 5 Matches
Brisbane HeatW, W, L, W, L
Sydney SixersL, W, W, L, W

Players to Watch

Brisbane Heat - Marcus Donovan: The opener has been explosive in recent matches, scoring 180 runs in last 5 innings at a strike rate of 140.

Brisbane Heat - Liam Carter: Their lead pacer with 9 wickets in the tournament so far, especially effective with the new ball at The Gabba.

Brisbane Heat - Josh Mitchell: Reliable allrounder contributing with quickfire 30s and economical bowling spells.

Sydney Sixers - Aaron Patel: Experienced batsman and captain, he’s scored two half-centuries in last five matches, anchoring the innings.

Sydney Sixers - Naveed Khan: The emerging spinner has taken 7 wickets in last 5 games, maintaining a tight economy rate under 7.5.

Sydney Sixers - Dylan Morris: Aggressive middle-order hitter, recent 25+ scores at impressive strike rates, crucial during death overs.