BBL 2025-26: Predicting playing XI for match 40

Brisbane Heat will take on Sydney Sixers in Match No. 40 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 on Sunday, January 18. This fixture marks the final league match of the tournament, with both teams still in contention for a strong finish. Brisbane Heat are currently placed fifth on the points table with five wins from nine matches, while Sydney Sixers sit fourth with an identical record, making this encounter a crucial one ahead of the playoffs. Here let us take a look at probable playing XI for both teams for Match No.40.

Brisbane Heat: Brisbane Heat vs Sydney Sixers

Top Order: Usman Khawaja (C), Jack Wildermuth, Nathan McSweeney

Usman Khawaja will lead the side and has scored 97 runs in two matches this season. He is expected to open alongside Jack Wildermuth, who has been consistent at the top with 221 runs from nine games. Nathan McSweeney, with 124 runs from five innings, is likely to bat at No. 3.

Middle Order: Matthew Renshaw, Max Bryant, Jimmy Peirson (WK), Marnus Labuschagne

Matthew Renshaw has been the backbone of Brisbane’s batting lineup, amassing 324 runs in nine matches. Max Bryant has contributed aggressively with 208 runs, while wicketkeeper Jimmy Peirson has scored 119 runs in seven innings. Marnus Labuschagne has featured in just one match so far.

Lower Middle Order: Michael Neser, Xavier Bartlett

Michael Neser has played only one game this season but offers depth with both bat and ball. Xavier Bartlett has been impressive with the ball, picking up 13 wickets in nine matches.

Bowler: Matthew Kuhnemann, Zaman Khan

Matthew Kuhnemann has taken nine wickets and will lead the spin attack, while Zaman Khan, who has featured in two games, is likely to complete the bowling unit.

Sydney Sixers:

Top Order: Babar Azam, Steven Smith, Josh Philippe (WK)

Babar Azam has scored 201 runs in nine matches, while Steven Smith has been in excellent form, scoring 119 runs in just two games. Josh Philippe, the wicketkeeper, has been consistent with 232 runs in eight innings.

Middle Order: Moises Henriques (C), Sam Curran, Lachlan Shaw

Sydney Sixers captain Moises Henriques has scored 116 runs in eight innings. Sam Curran, who has played three matches so far, provides all-round balance, while Lachlan Shaw has had an average season with modest contributions.

Lower Middle Order: Jack Edwards, Joel Davies

Jack Edwards has been one of the standout bowlers, claiming 15 wickets in eight innings. Joel Davies has also impressed with 10 wickets in the tournament.

Bowler: Ben Manenti, Sean Abbott, Mitchell Starc

The bowling attack will be led by Sean Abbott and Mitchell Starc. Abbott has taken six wickets in five innings, while Starc has featured in one match so far. Ben Manenti adds spin and control to the attack.