BBL 2025-26: Hobart Hurricanes dealt major blow as captain Nathan Ellis misses Knockout

Hobart Hurricanes have suffered a major setback ahead of their Big Bash League (BBL) Knockout clash against Melbourne Stars, with captain Nathan Ellis ruled out of the must-win encounter. The Hurricanes confirmed that Ellis sustained an injury during their match against Brisbane Heat, although the exact nature of the injury was not disclosed.

The franchise added that his availability for the remainder of the finals series will be assessed over the coming days. Hobart Hurricanes’ BBL campaign could come to an end on Wednesday, January 21, if they are defeated by Melbourne Stars. However, a victory, or even a washout, with rain forecast, would see them progress to the Challenger on Friday, January 23, where they will face either Perth Scorchers or Sydney Sixers.

Ellis has been the Hurricanes’ leading wicket-taker this season, claiming 14 wickets at an average of 21.28 and an economy rate of 9.03. He has operated in crucial phases of the innings, including the powerplay, power surge, and death overs. In his absence, Ben McDermott will take over the captaincy.

Meanwhile, on Monday, January 19, Australia’s selectors announced that Ellis would be rested, alongside Glenn Maxwell, for the three-match T20I series against Pakistan, which serves as preparation for next month’s World Cup. Ellis has become a key component of Australia’s T20 attack, and chair of selectors George Bailey was subsequently asked whether there were any injury concerns surrounding the pair.

"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 busy back end to the tournament. I think like nearly every tournament that we head to, particularly when it's a really busy time of the year as this one is, it's very much working with individuals around making sure that they get the … best preparation they can to make sure that when they do join that World Cup squad, they're ready to perform,” said Bailey as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

Hobart Hurricanes will also be without Rehan Ahmed, who has departed for England duty in Sri Lanka. Tim David remains unavailable after sustaining a hamstring injury on Boxing Day.