With the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 into its penultimate stage with the top four teams making into the playoffs, the Hobart Hurricanes have suffered a massive setback. The defending champions will miss the services of their captain Nathan Ellis in the Knockout match against the Melbourne Stars, scheduled to be played at the Bellerive Oval on January 21.
The Hurricanes have informed that Nathan Ellis picked up an injury during their league stage fixture against Brisbane Heat, however they did not specify on the nature of the injury. Furthermore, the franchise added that the 31-year-old’s availability for the remaining season “will be determined over the coming days.” This comes with Ellis being the leading wicket-taker for the Hurricanes in the ongoing season with 14 scalps at an economy of 9.03.
Ben McDermott to captain Hurricanes
In Nathan Ellis’ absence, the Hobart Hurricanes will be led by Ben McDermott. Additionally, the side will also be without Rehan Ahmed, who has left for international duties for England who will play Sri Lanka in a white-ball series consisting of three ODIs and as many T20Is.
Moreover, Ellis’ absence could also affect the Australian campaign, who will play Pakistan in a three-match T20I series. On Monday, Chief Selector George Bailey was enquired on the injury concerns, to which he responded, “No, I hope not. They’ve got a busy, well, one of them is going to have a busy few days with hopefully two or three games in four or five days. So a bust back end to the tournament.”
Hobart Hurricanes squad for BBL 2025-26 Knockout vs Melbourne Stars:
Mitchell Owen, Tim Ward, Beau Webster, Ben McDermott (C), Nikhil Chaudhary, Matthew Wade (wk), Chris Jordan, Rishad Hossain, Riley Meredith, Bill Stanlake, Will Prestwidge, Macalister Wright.
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