Sydney Sixers appoint new head coach following Greg Shipperd's exit

Sydney Sixers have appointed former Australia batting allrounder, James Hopes, as their new head coach for two years, following the sacking of Greg Shipperd. Hopes, 47, is currently rendering his services as the bowling coach of Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL.

Shipperd was appointed on a two-year contract but was sacked midway through despite leading Sixers to the final of BBL 2025-26. He was also replaced by former Australia wicketkeeper-batter, Brad Haddin, as the coach of New South Wales' Sheffield Shield and One-Day Cup outfits.

Hopes made his T20I and ODI debut for Australia against New Zealand in February and March 2005, respectively. He played a total of 84 ODIs and 12 T20Is and aggregated 1431 international runs, including three half-centuries in the 50-over format.

Hopes also claimed 67 ODI and 10 T20I wickets. His career-best ODI spell of 5/14 came against Ireland. A Queenslander by birth, Hopes represented Brisbane Heat across five seasons in the Big Bash League.

"I’m incredibly honoured to join the Sydney Sixers, a club with a proud history and a strong identity built on consistency, competitiveness and connection with its fans," Hopes said about his appointment in a release.

“I’m excited to work with a talented playing group and contribute to the next phase of the Sixers’ success in the BBL."

Hopes is also the bowling coach of Washington Freedom in Major League Cricket and has held similar roles previously for Delhi Capitals (DC), Heat, Queensland Bulls, Hobart Hurricanes and Tasmanian Tigers.

Sydney Sixers General Manager, Rachael Haynes, expressed great joy over Hopes' appointment and said the team can draw plenty out of his rich experience.

"James is an exceptional cricket mind with a proven track record of developing players and building high‑performing environments," Haynes said in a press release.

“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."