PBKS coach James Hopes appointed Sydney Sixers head coach before BBL 2026-27
Published - 04 May 2026, 10:35 AM | Updated - 04 May 2026, 11:17 AM
The Sydney Sixers have finally hit the reset button ahead of the Big Bash League 2026/27 season. Amidst their long title drought, the Sydney Sixers have decided to bring in fresh energy and a 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.
This 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 man to bring back the winning days for the men in magenta.
Key Points
- James Hopes appointed SS head coach for BBL 2026-27
- Replaces long-time coach Greg Shipperd
- Signs two-year contract
Sydney Sixers appoint James Hopes as new head coach ahead of Big Bash League 2026-27
James Hopes has been given a two-year contract by the Sydney Sixers, replacing Greg Shipperd, who had a long and successful journey with the BBL club. Shipperd was in charge for 11 years and made the team one of the most consistent and successful teams in the league.
Read Also: "Kudos to the efforts": Shreyas Iyer shows faith in PBKS after back-to-back defeats in IPL 2026
Under Shipperd’s guidance, the Sixers reached the finals eight times in a row and won two titles in 2020 and 2021. But earlier this year, he was removed from the role even though one year was still left in his contract, bringing an end to a memorable era.
James Hopes said in a statement on his appointment as quoted by Fox Cricket: “I’m incredibly honored to join the Sydney Sixers, a club with a proud history and a strong identity built on consistency, competitiveness, and connection with its fans. I’m excited to work with a talented playing group and contribute to the next phase of the Sixers’ success in the BBL.”
James Hopes’ coaching journey
Hopes comes with solid experience both as a player and a coach. The former all-rounder played 84 ODIs and 12 T20Is for Australia. After his retirement, the Aussie built his coaching career by working with different teams across leagues.
He has already worked with Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL as a bowling coach and also had a role with Washington Freedom in Major League Cricket.
Along with that, he has been part of coaching setups with Delhi Capitals, Brisbane Heat, Hobart Hurricanes, and domestic teams like Queensland and Tasmania. But his new role with the Sydney Sixers is his first full-time head coach position at the top level.
Why was James Hopes selected to lead the Sydney Sixers’ new era in BBL?
Meanwhile, the Sydney Sixers’ general manager, Rachael Haynes, believes that Hopes understands modern cricket very well and knows how to build 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 building high‑performing environments. His depth of experience across Australian domestic cricket and international franchise competitions makes him an outstanding fit for the Sixers. We’re pleased to welcome him into the club as we enter an exciting new chapter.”
Notably, the Sydney Thunder are also looking for a new coach after Trevor Bayliss left his position.
FAQ
- Who is the new Sydney Sixers head coach?
James Hopes has been appointed ahead of BBL 2026-27. - Which IPL team is James Hopes associated with?
He has worked as a bowling coach with Punjab Kings. - Who did James Hopes replace?
He replaced long-time coach Greg Shipperd.
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