The Sydney Sixers have appointed former Australian all-rounder James Hopes as their head coach on a two-year deal ahead of the 2026-27 Big Bash League season. Hopes, a Queensland cricket figure who represented Australia in 84 One Day Internationals and 12 Twenty20 Internationals, will take the helm as the Sixers seek to end a six-year run without a BBL title.

Hopes expressed enthusiasm about leading the team, highlighting the club’s strong history and connection with its supporters. “I’m incredibly honoured to join the Sydney Sixers, a club with a proud history and a strong identity built on consistency, competitiveness and connection with its fans,” he said. Hopes also emphasized his eagerness to collaborate with the current playing group and contribute to the team’s future success in the league.

Since retiring from professional playing in 2016, Hopes has gained coaching experience across various teams and leagues. His roles have included serving as bowling coach for the Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League and the Washington Freedom in Major League Cricket. Additionally, he has worked as an assistant coach with the Delhi Capitals, Brisbane Heat, Queensland Bulls, Hobart Hurricanes, and Tasmanian Tigers. The Sydney Sixers position marks Hopes’ first appointment as a professional head coach.

Hopes succeeds Greg Shipperd, who was stood down from the head coaching role in January despite having a year remaining on his contract. Under Shipperd’s 11-year tenure, the Sixers consistently performed well, qualifying for the finals in eight consecutive seasons and securing back-to-back championships in 2020 and 2021. The franchise will be looking to Hopes to revitalize the team and reclaim its dominance in the BBL after several seasons without a title.