Sydney lost the qualifier but got another bite of the cherry by finishing second in the Big Bash League standings. Their safeguard is a BBL Challenger showdown with Hobart, who almost snatched defeat from the jaws of victory in a short but thrilling Knockout.
It therefore feels fitting that the league meeting between Sydney and Hobart at the SCG a fortnight ago was washed out with Steve Smith on the 19th.
Too often, Australia’s vice-captain has been the lone man holding back the tide. Sam Curran has had his moments, notably the half-century that secured their place in the qualifiers, but he has now departed for international duty. Sixers need more from Pakistan skipper Babar Azam.
Ben McDermott captained Hobart for their midweek win and will continue to do so if Nathan Ellis is unable to recover from an unspecified injury. Regardless of the Sixers’ problems with the bat, with Mitchell Starc now in the BBL flow, the Hurricanes will be up against it.
Read on for our guide to where to watch BBL Challenger live streams online, on TV and potentially free wherever you are.
Can I watch BBL Challenger for free?
Yes. Sydney vs Hobart is free in Australia, courtesy of 7 mates and that 7Plus streaming service.
7Plus registration requires a valid Australian postcode (eg NSW 2000).
Are you traveling abroad right now? You can use a VPN to watch all the action for free as if you were at home. NordVPN is our top choice of options.
Use a VPN to watch any BBL Challenger stream
How to watch BBL Challenger live streams in USA
BBL Challenger can be watched on a dedicated cricket streaming service Willow TV in the United States.
If you don’t have it as part of your cable package, you can watch Willow’s Sydney vs Hobart coverage through your choice of Sling TVs Desi Binge Plus or Dakshin Flex plans – starts from $10 per month.
Visiting the US from Australia? Use NordVPN to watch 7Plus’ free Big Bash League coverage.
How to watch BBL Challenger live streams in the UK
Sydney vs Hobart, along with every match in the 2025/26 Big Bash League, is shown on Sky Sports in the UK via the Sky Sports Cricket channel.
Sky Sports plans start from £35/month or £20 if you’re an existing Sky subscriber. Alternatively, you can get a Now Sports subscription from £14.99/day or £34.99/month.
Outside the UK right now? Use NordVPN to access your favorite BBL Challenger coverage.
How to watch BBL Challenger live streams in Australia
Sydney vs Hobart is free-to-air in Australia on Channel 7, with live streaming available through the network’s 7Plus platform.
Just keep in mind that you’ll need a valid Australian postcode, such as 2000, to set up an account.
BBL Challenger coverage is also available on Fox Cricket via Foxtelwith live streaming available via Kayo Sports. Kayo Sports starts at AU$30 per month after a 7-day free trial. Or you can get your first month for AU$1.
If you are currently outside of Australia but want to watch a BBL Challenger live stream, you will have to get a VPNaccording to the instructions above.
How to watch BBL Challenger live streams in India
Cricket fans in India need Star Sports to watch the BBL Challenger on TV, or the JioHotstar app to tune in on mobile devices. Prices start at Rs. 299 ($3.49) for Hotstar.
Visiting India from Australia? Use NordVPN to access 7Plus’ free Sydney vs Hobart coverage while away from home.
How to watch BBL Challenger live streams in New Zealand
Sky Sports NZ shows the BBL Challenger in New Zealand
You can access Sky Sport via satellite TV or get a Sydney vs Hobart live stream via Sky Sport Now subscription servicestarting at $29.99 per day or $54.99 per month.
If you are away from New Zealand right now, use NordVPN to access your usual subscriptions.
How to watch BBL Challenger live streams in South Africa
The BBL Challenger will be shown on Supersport in South Africa.
You must have one DStv access package to tune in to Sydney vs Hobart, with prices starting at R99/month for streaming.
Outside of South Africa right now? Use NordVPN to access your home coverage of the game.
When does the BBL Challenger start?
The match between Sydney Sixers and Hobart Hurricanes is scheduled to start at 03.15 ET / 12.15 PT / 8.15 GMT / 19.15 AEDT Friday 23 January.
Can I follow the Big Bash Challenger on my mobile?
Of course! Each of the major broadcasters has streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or through your phone’s browser.
You can also stay updated with all the key BBL moments on Big Bash League’s official social media channels on Instagram (@BBL), TikTok (@BigBash) and Facebook (@BBL).
We test and review VPN services for legitimate recreational use. For example: 1. Accessing a Service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that Service). 2. Protecting your online security and enhancing your online privacy when you are abroad. We do not support or condone illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consumption of paid-for pirated content is neither endorsed nor endorsed by Future Publishing.
