5:38 AM IST Well, it's a damp end to proceedings here at the SCG as the rain gods have ultimately had the final say, but the Big Bash juggernaut rolls on. We shift our attention immediately to the second leg of today’s double-header, where the Adelaide Strikers are poised to take on the Perth Scorchers at 8.15 am GMT (1.45 pm IST). The build-up, though, will begin much sooner, so do join us for what promises to be a cracking encounter. Until then, take care, and cheers!
5:36 AM IST It’s all over here as the rain has forced the match to be ABANDONED. It is a disappointing finish for the frustrated crowd who waited a long time for play to resume. We only got to see five overs of action, where Babar Azam played a slow, steady knock while Steve Smith showed some brief style at the other end. Unfortunately, the weather has won today, and the teams will have to split the points.
5:36 AM IST Though it’s a washout, it's a good result for both sides! With the points shared, the Hobart Hurricanes have officially booked their spot in the playoffs! As for the Sydney Sixers, this crucial point lifts them into third place on the ladder, keeping them right in the hunt for the top four as the race heats up.
5:03 AM IST UPDATE - 5.03 am GMT (10.33 am IST) - This is getting ridiculous! The drizzle just won't stop. The two umpires were seen in the middle with the umbrellas and to make matters worse, even the super soppers have stopped working. Just endless waiting!
4:44 AM IST UPDATE - 4.22 am GMT (9.52 am IST) - The waiting game continues! It seems the Rain Gods are not in a good mood today. Sydney Sixers' opening batters didn't get the fiery start, but just when they were looking comfortable, the game got interrupted. Right now, two Super Soppers are soaking water logs at the boundary ropes. Stick around for further updates.
4:43 AM IST Meanwhile, History is being made at the BCA Stadium in India as it hosts its first-ever international to kick off India's 2026 calendar! Shubman Gill takes the reins of a powerhouse Indian side that welcomes back Shreyas Iyer and features the legendary duo of Rohit and Virat, though they will be without the injured Rishabh Pant. Facing them is a Michael Bracewell-led New Zealand outfit, depleted of stars like Williamson but offering a big stage for debutant Kristian Clarke to make his mark. The atmosphere is electric, the pitch looks fresh, and the action gets underway at 11 AM GMT. Don't miss that cracking opener!