The Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 continues to thrill cricket fans, and Match 29 promises excitement as Brisbane Heat host Sydney Thunder at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane on Saturday, 10 January.
This fixture is particularly notable after Sydney Thunder claimed a narrow win over the Heat earlier in the season, their sole victory to date.
What is the current form of the Brisbane Heat and the Sydney Thunder?
The Brisbane Heat, led by Nathan McSweeney, have experienced a fluctuating season. Out of seven matches, the Heat have three wins and four losses, leaving them eager to consolidate their position for a potential playoff berth.
Their home advantage at the Gabba could prove decisive, with high-scoring matches historically favouring teams batting first.
Meanwhile, the Sydney Thunder have struggled, occupying the bottom of the BBL points table.
David Warner blazes 82 off 56—third fifty in a row!
An explosive 84-run stand with Billings, a tough drop by Labuschagne, and a lightning run-out by McSweeney…
Thunder post 180/6 at the Gabba. Can the Heat chase it down? ️
pic.twitter.com/5M5picYoSR— The sports (@the_sports_x) January 10, 2026
Led by David Warner, the Thunder have managed only one win this season and are battling a net run rate of -1.255, reflecting the difficulties they’ve faced.
Although eliminated from finals contention, the team is keen to salvage pride and momentum with a strong performance against the Heat.
What are the match details for Brisbane Heat vs Sydney Thunder?
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Brisbane Heat vs Sydney Thunder, Match 29 |
| Date & Time (UK) | Saturday, 10 January, 01:30 AM GMT |
| Venue | Gabba, Brisbane |
| Broadcast & Streaming | JioStar Network channels & JioHotstar app/website |
What does the Gabba pitch look like this season?
The Gabba continues to be a high-scoring venue, with fast bowlers gaining a slight early advantage. Captains often prefer batting first, hoping to set a challenging total under lights.
The last three matches at the Gabba have produced totals exceeding 180 runs, making it a batter-friendly wicket.
How have Brisbane Heat and Sydney Thunder fared historically?
The two sides have met 23 times in T20S:
| Team | Wins | Ties | No Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brisbane Heat | 14 | 0 | 1 |
| Sydney Thunder | 8 | 0 | 1 |
Their rivalry has been closely contested, with the Heat enjoying a slight edge, particularly at home in Brisbane.
The first-ever fixture between the teams took place on 16 January 2012, with the most recent encounter on 22 December 2025.
Who are the key players to watch?
Probable Best Batters
David Warner (Sydney Thunder) has been a standout this season, including a remarkable 130 off 65 balls. His experience and captaincy will be crucial for the Thunder in trying to secure a rare win.
Matt Renshaw and Max Bryant (Brisbane Heat) could be pivotal at the top order, setting the tone for the chase or defending a large total.
Probable Best Bowlers
Xavier Bartlett (Brisbane Heat) has impressed with disciplined bowling, recently taking a key wicket while conceding just 23 runs. His early seam movement could exploit Thunder’s batting vulnerabilities.
Chris Green and Daniel Sams (Sydney Thunder) are expected to provide crucial breakthroughs if the Thunder are to mount a comeback.
What are the predictions and expectations?
Cricket analysts suggest that the team winning the toss might favour batting first, following Gabba’s trend for higher totals.
Considering recent form and home advantage, the Brisbane Heat are slight favourites. However, with a player like David Warner in form, an upset is not out of the question.
