Former Australia allrounder James Hopes has been named the next head coach of the Sydney Sixers on a two-year deal, the franchise announced on Monday, May 4. The appointment marks Hopes’ first top coaching role and comes after a coaching stint with Punjab Kings during the ongoing IPL.
Key takeaways
- James Hopes has been appointed head coach of the Sydney Sixers for a two-year term.
- The 47-year-old will take over his first head coaching position after working mainly in assistant roles.
- Hopes is currently serving as bowling coach for Punjab Kings in the ongoing IPL.
- Sydney Sixers are three-time BBL champions and also reached the final as runners-up in the most recent season.
- Greg Shipperd was removed as head coach following the latest BBL campaign.
Hopes set for his first head coach job
Hopes, who turns 47, will assume control of one of the most decorated teams in Big Bash League history. His new role is his first as head coach, after previous responsibilities that were largely focused on coaching support, particularly in bowling-related capacities across franchise cricket.
At the moment, Hopes is working with Punjab Kings during the current IPL as their bowling coach. With this appointment, he is set to shift from an IPL coaching role to a leading position with the Sixers, where expectations are high given the franchise’s track record.
Sixers’ coaching change and the club’s expectations
The Sixers confirmed that they are bringing in Hopes after parting ways with Greg Shipperd at the end of the latest BBL season. Sydney ended that campaign as runners-up, adding to their continued presence at the business end of the tournament.
Overall, the Sixers have lifted the BBL title on three occasions and have finished as runners-up multiple times. Their latest appointment reflects a desire to build on that consistency and keep the franchise moving forward after a near-miss.
What Hopes said after the announcement
Speaking after his selection, Hopes said he was “incredibly honoured” to join the Sydney Sixers, highlighting the club’s long-standing heritage and the strong sense of identity it has developed through steady performance, competitiveness, and close connection with supporters.
He also expressed enthusiasm about working with the squad and stated that he wants to help drive the next stage of the Sixers’ success in the BBL.
International playing record
Before his coaching pathway, Hopes enjoyed a playing career for Australia across limited-overs cricket. He represented the country in 84 One-Day Internationals and 12 T20 Internationals, with his last appearance at international level coming in 2010.
