BBL 2025/26 | Match 12: Perth Scorchers vs Hobart Hurricanes | Preview and Predictions

Perth Scorchers take on Hobart Hurricanes in Match 12 of the ongoing 2025/26 Big Bash League at the Optus Stadium on 26th December 2025. 

The Scorchers are returning to action after a full one-week break following their loss to the Brisbane Heat in Match 6 while the Hurricanes after getting humbled by the Melbourne Stars in their second game, fought back against the Renegades to sit second with two wins in three. 

Here, we present our preview and predictions for Match 12 between the Scorchers and the Hurricanes.

BBL|15 Match 12: Scorchers vs Hurricanes | 15:45 IST, December 26, 2025

The Perth Scorchers will be playing a competitive match after a full seven-day gap, following the gut-wrenching defeat to the Brisbane Heat in Match 6. 

Despite failing to defend a huge score of 258 runs, they still find themselves fourth in the table, winning one and losing one of their opening fixtures. The batting department has been in fine form, and produced runs for the Scorchers across both fixtures. 

Kiwi wicket-keeper batter Finn Allen and Australian spin-bowling all-rounder Cooper Connolly have been the standout performers in the opening week. Connolly is currently the team’s highest run-getter, scoring 138 runs in two innings at a strike-rate of 200 while Allen with 95 runs off 46 balls is scoring at a strike-rate of 206.5.

However, the biggest concern for the Scorchers will be the lack of returns from their marquee opener Mitchell Marsh so far. The Western Australian only has three runs from 12 deliveries thus far in BBL|15. 

That said, there are bigger concerns in the bowling department. In their first two fixtures, they conceded 371 runs in 30.5 overs at just under 12 runs per over. For a team aspiring to win their sixth BBL title, such bowling displays can’t help them make the playoffs if things don’t change. 

Reigning champions Hobart Hurricanes on the other hand sit pretty in second after winning two out of their three fixtures so far. Both Sydney Thunder and Melbourne Renegades were comfortable outings, however, the manner of their defeat against the Melbourne Stars means there are still a few areas that need polishing if they are to go back-to-back this season. 

In the batting department, Ben McDermott (156 runs) has been their leading run-getter, while Nikhil Chaudhary’s exceptional 38-ball 79 runs innings was the highlight of their win against the Renegades last time out. Moreover, with the likes of Mitchell Owen, Tim David, and Matthew Wade yet to hit their stride, the Hurricanes should feel confident with the batting department as a whole. 

Their bowling attack is led by England all-rounder Chris Jordan, already taking six wickets in three games. Both Billy Stanlake and Riley Meredith provide able support with their seam-up express pace, however, with their track record of recurring injuries, the Hurricanes management will have to carefully manage their playing time, in particular. 

Skipper Nathan Ellis with his change-ups and accurate death bowling will be key, however, the management will be more pleased that both overseas spinners (Rishad Hossain and Rehan Ahmed) have started well and have looked in good rhythm since the start of the tournament. 

In terms of weather forecast and pitch report, fans at the Optus will get some respite from the extreme heat with the weather turning windy and getting colding as the match progresses. Moreover, there will be some early assistance for the new-ball bowlers. Hence, teams will look to chase. 

Looking ahead to this match-up, Perth Scorchers thrive on intensity and aggression, especially at home. Despite mixed early results this season, their performances have been spirited, with both games going right down to the wire. Although it’s very difficult to pick a winner in this match, we expect the Scorchers to come out firing against the reigning champions and ride on their balance and form to claim the win.

Fantasy XI: Mitchell Marsh (vc), Nikhil Chaudhary, Finn Allen, Cooper Connolly, Ben McDermott, Tim David, Chris Jordan (c), Aaron Hardie, Rishad Hossain, Nathan Ellis, Joel Paris, Billy Stanlake 

Venue: Optus Stadium, Perth 

Winners Prediction: Perth Scorchers