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 clash with Hobart, who nearly snatched defeat from victory in a brief but exciting knockout.
It seems fitting, then, that the league match between Sydney and Hobart at the SCG a fortnight ago was washed out with Steve Smith on 19.
Too often, Australia’s vice-captain has been the only one to stem the tide. Sam Curran has had his moments, most notably the half-century that secured his place in the Qualifier, but he has now departed to fulfill his international obligations. The Sixers need more from Pakistan captain Babar Azam.
Ben McDermott captained Hobart in their midweek win and will continue to do so if Nathan Ellis is unable to recover from his unspecified injury. Regardless of the Sixers’ issues with the bat, with Mitchell Starc now in the BBL stream, the Hurricanes will deal with it.
Read on for our guide on where to watch BBL Challenger live streams online, on TV and potentially free wherever you are.
Can I watch BBL Challenger for free?
Yeah. Sydney vs Hobart streams free in Australia, courtesy of 7mate and the 7Plus streaming service.
7Plus registration requires a valid Australian postcode (e.g. NSW 2000).
Traveling abroad right now? You can use a VPN to watch all the action for free as if you were at home. NordVPN It’s our best pick of the options.
Use a VPN to watch any BBL Challenger stream
How to Watch BBL Challenger Live Streams in the US
The BBL Challenger is available to watch on the dedicated cricket streaming service willow television in the US
If you don’t have it as part of your cable package, you can watch Willow’s Sydney vs Hobart coverage via your choice. Honda TV Desi Binge Plus either Dakshin Flexion plans – starting from $10 per month.
Visiting the US from Australia? Wear NordVPN to watch 7Plus’ free coverage of the Big Bash League.
How to Watch BBL Challenger Live Streams in the UK
Sydney vs Hobart, along with all 2025/26 Big Bash League matches, are shown on sky sports in the United Kingdom, through the Sky Sports Cricket channel.
Sky Sports plans start from £35 a month or £20 if you’re an existing Sky subscriber. Alternatively, get a subscription to Now Sports from £14.99 a day or £34.99 a month.
Outside the UK at the moment? Wear NordVPN to access your preferred BBL Challenger coverage.
How to Watch BBL Challenger Live Streams in Australia
Sydney vs Hobart is broadcast free of charge in Australia on Channel 7, with live streaming available across the network. 7Plus Platform.
Just note that you’ll need a valid Australian postcode, such as 2000, to create 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 Australia but want to watch a live stream of the BBL Challenger, you will need to get yourself a VPNaccording to the previous instructions.
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? Wear NordVPN to access 7Plus’ free Sydney vs Hobart coverage while you’re away from home.
How to Watch BBL Challenger Live Streams in New Zealand
Sky Sport reviews 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 servicefrom $29.99 per day or $54.99 per month.
If you are away from New Zealand at the moment, use NordVPN to access your regular subscriptions.
How to watch BBL Challenger live streams in South Africa
The BBL Challenger is broadcast on Supersport in South Africa.
You will need to get a DStv Access Package to tune into Sydney vs Hobart, with prices starting at R99/month for streaming.
Out of South Africa right now? Wear NordVPN to access coverage of the game in your home.
What time does the BBL Challenger start?
The Sydney Sixers vs Hobart Hurricanes match is scheduled to begin at 3:15am ET / 12:15am PT / 8:15am GMT / 7:15pm AEDT on Friday, January 23.
Can I follow the Big Bash Challenger from my mobile?
Of course! Each of the major broadcasters has streaming services that you can access through mobile apps or through the browser on your phone.
You can also stay up to date with all the key BBL moments on the Big Bash League’s official social media channels on Instagram (@BBL), TikTok (@BigBash) and Facebook (@BBL).
We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example: 1. Access a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service). 2. Protect your online security and strengthen your online privacy when you are abroad. We do not support or tolerate illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Future Publishing does not endorse or approve the consumption of paid pirated content.
