High-flying Sydney Sixers appoint James Hopes as head coach

Former Australian all-rounder James Hopes has been appointed as the head coach of Sydney Sixers on a two-year contract, the club confirmed on Monday, May 4. This will be the 47-year-old’s first rodeo at the helm.

Hopes has previously held assistant coaching roles, primarily as the bowling coach in franchise cricket. He is currently working with Punjab Kings in the ongoing Indian Premier League as their bowling coach. He will now be in charge of one of the most successful franchises in Big Bash League history. Sixers have won the title thrice and have finished runners-up on multiple occasions including the latest edition, after which Greg Shipperd was let go as the head coach.

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

James represented Australia in 84 ODIs and 12 T20Is with his last international appearance coming in 2010.