The Sydney Sixers have finally hit the reset button ahead of the Big Bash League 2026/27 season. Amid their long title drought, the Sydney Sixers have decided to bring in new energy and new direction. In a major announcement, they have appointed former Australian all-rounder James Hopes as their new head coach for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season.
The decision comes at a crucial time for the BBL club, which has not won the title for the last six seasons. The Sixers team management clearly wants a strong comeback, and they believe Hopes is the right person to bring back winning days for the men in magenta.
key points
- James Hopes appointed SS head coach for BBL 2026-27
- Replacement of longtime coach Greg Shipperd
- Sign a two-year contract
Sydney Sixers appoint James Hopes as new head coach ahead of Big Bash League 2026-27
James Hopes has been handed a two-year contract by the Sydney Sixers, replacing Greg Shipperd, who had a long and successful journey with the BBL club. Shipard remained in charge for 11 years and turned the team into one of the league’s most consistent and successful teams.
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Under Shippard’s guidance, the Sixers reached the finals eight consecutive times and won two titles in 2020 and 2021. But earlier this year, he was fired from the role while he still had a year left on his contract, bringing an end to a memorable era.
James Hopes said in a statement on his appointment, quoted by Fox Cricket: “I am incredibly honored to join the Sydney Sixers, a club with a proud history and a strong identity built on continuity, competitiveness and engagement with its fans. I am excited to work with a talented playing group and contribute to the Sixers’ next phase of success in the BBL.”
James Hope’s coaching journey
Hopps has solid experience as both a player and coach. The former all-rounder played 84 ODIs and 12 T20 matches for Australia. After his retirement, the Australian player pursued a coaching career by working with various teams across the leagues.
He has already worked as a bowling coach with Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL and also had a stint with Washington Freedom in Major League Cricket.
Along with this, he has been a part of the coaching setups with domestic teams like Delhi Capitals, Brisbane Heat, Hobart Hurricanes and Queensland and Tasmania. But his new role with the Sydney Sixers is his first full-time head coach position at the top level.
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Why was James Hopes chosen to lead the new era of Sydney Sixers in the BBL?
Meanwhile, Sydney Sixers general manager Rachael Haynes believes that Hopes understands modern cricket very well and knows how to create a strong team environment. The franchise is entering a new phase, and they see him as the right person to lead that change.
Haynes said in a statement: “James is an exceptional cricket mind with a proven track record of developing players and creating high-performance environments. His depth of experience in Australian domestic cricket and international franchise competitions makes him an excellent fit for the Sixers. We are delighted to welcome him to the Club as we enter an exciting new chapter.”
Notably, Sydney Thunder is also looking for a new coach after Trevor Bayliss left his post.
FAQ
- Who is the new head coach of Sydney Sixers?
James Hopes has been appointed ahead of BBL 2026-27. - James Hopes is associated with which IPL team?
He has worked as a bowling coach with Punjab Kings. - Whom did James Hopes replace?
He replaced longtime coach Greg Shipperd.
