Brisbane Heat vs Sydney Sixers Dream11 Prediction BBL 2025-26 Match 40: Gabba Top Picks, Playing XI, Pitch Report & Who Will Win

The Brisbane Heat and Sydney Sixers are gearing up for a blockbuster match in match 40 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 at The Gabba, Brisbane, on January 18, 2026. With the playoffs on the horizon, the game has huge importance to both teams. The Heat are currently in third place and are hoping to secure their playoff position, while the Sixers are in 2nd place and are aiming to climb to the top spot on the table of points. Both teams are tied at 14 points; however, the Sixers are ahead due to a higher net run rate.

The Gabba has been a stronghold in the Brisbane Heat this season, with six wins from eight home matches. The venue is known for its speed and bounce. The Gabba has consistently produced high-scoring games with an average score of 175+. The drama is heightened by the dew factor, which makes chasing a top option with 60% of matches being won by teams that bat second.

The Heat are entering this game with a glimmer of confidence after completing a historic chase against the Perth Scorchers in their last game. Usman Khawaja, as well as Marnus Labuschagne, are in top form and have been the mainstays of the batting line-up. On the other side, the Sydney Sixers have been equally impressive, featuring Babar Azam leading the charge. The Pakistani master has been a standout this season, consistently scoring at the top of the list. The Sixers also have a formidable bowling attack and have Sean Abbott and Ben Dwarshuis as wickets.

This game is expected to be an exciting contest and will be a battle to be on the lookout for. Usman Khawaja and Josh Philippe are two of the most powerful opening players in the league will set the tone for their teams. The middle-order clash between Marnus Labuschagne and Moises Henriques could be decisive. With both teams in top performance, the fans could anticipate an exciting game under the lights of The Gabba.

Will the Heat continue to dominate at home, or will the Sixers increase their head-to-head advantage? Keep an eye on us as we break down the match’s details as well as team news, Dream11 predictions, and more.

BRH vs SYS Dream11 Prediction: Match Details

The much-anticipated Match 40 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 between Brisbane Heat and Sydney Sixers will be played on the 18th of January, 2026, at The Gabba, Brisbane. The game will start at 1:45 pm IST (6:15 pm local time). This will be an exciting time for fans of cricket.

Venue Insights:

The Gabba is famous for its speed-friendly surface that offers an even bounce and carry that makes it an ideal spot for those who love to stroke. The average score for the first innings at the Gabba is 175+ and teams who chase have had a success score of 60% due to the factor of dew that plays when the lighting is on. Bowlers, especially pacers, must be able to adjust quickly to the weather, as the pitch is more favorable to batters when the game moves along.

Streaming Details:

Fans can watch live coverage on Fox Cricket and Kayo Sports in Australia, and international viewers can tune in via the respective broadcasters.

Points Table Context:

The two teams are both tied at 14 points following 11 matches. The Sixers hold a slight advantage due to their higher net run rate (+0.850 against Heat’s +0.650). This game could determine who will finish in the top two which adds a new stake to an already thrilling match.

BRH vs SYS Dream11 Prediction: Head-to-Head & Recent Form

Overall Head-to-Head Record

The Brisbane Heat and Sydney Sixers have met in 23 matches over the course of the Big Bash League. The Sixers have been dominant in this rivalry, winning 14 times; however, the Heat have been able to claim victory in seven games, with two games ending without a winner.

At The Gabba, however, the record is more even. Both teams have shared victories. The Heat will benefit from the advantage they have at home, as they’ve had a great season, winning 6 of eight matches. On the other side the Sixers will be relying on their superior head-to-head record as well as recent form to keep their advantage.

Recent Form

Brisbane Heat (Last 5 Matches):

• Win vs Perth Scorchers (Chased 258)
• Loss vs Sydney Thunder
• Win vs Melbourne Stars
• Win vs Adelaide Strikers
• Loss vs Hobart Hurricanes

The Heat have been outstanding in chases, and their middle order has been performing at crucial times. Their recent win over the Scorchers, in which they chased down a staggering 258, demonstrates their ability to bat with depth and withstand pressure.

Sydney Sixers (Last 5 Matches):

• Win vs Melbourne Renegades
• Win vs Hobart Hurricanes
• Loss vs Perth Scorchers
• Win vs Adelaide Strikers
• Win vs Melbourne Stars

The Sixers have been consistent in their performances, and their top line is firing on all cylinders. Babar Azam has been the top performer with a match-winning 58 in their final game*. Their bowling unit, which is led by Sean Abbott and Jack Edwards, is also at its best and makes them a balanced team.

Key Stats to Watch:

• Jimmy Peirson (BRH): The Heat’s wicketkeeper-batter has proven to be a standout in the final overs with an average score of more than 150 this season.
• Babar Azam (SYS) Babar Azam (SYS) Pakistani star has served as the mainstay of the Sixers batsmen with consistently good performance at the top of the list.
• Jack Edwards (SYS): The all-rounder has taken 10 wickets this season, which is an impressive rate of 7.27.

Both teams are in great form; this match is expected to be an exciting contest. The Heat’s ability to chase is going to be tested against the Sixers, with their well-balanced attack and depth of batting.

BRH vs SYS Dream11 Prediction: Team News & Predicted Playing XI

Brisbane Heat Team News

The Brisbane Heat have been in excellent form, particularly in their home arena, and will be looking to maintain their success at The Gabba. Skipper Usman Khawaja has been leading from the front and has provided steadiness at the top of their lineup. The middle order, with Marnus Labuschagne as well as Jimmy Peirson, has been important in recent chases.

The Heat’s bowling team, which is led by Michael Neser and Matthew Kuhnemann, has been successful in utilizing the Gabba’s speed-friendly conditions. However, they’ll have to be more disciplined, especially during the power play, because they’ve been known to concede large starts.

No serious injuries have been reported. The Heat will likely remain with their winning formula from their last game.

Brisbane Heat Predicted XI:

1. Usman Khawaja (c) – The veteran opener is in top form and is crucial in creating the mood.
2. Matt Renshaw – A versatile batter who can adjust to various situations.
3. Marnus Labuschagne is the backbone of the middle order, capable of anchoring or speeding.
4. Max Bryant – A power-hitter who is able to benefit from the powerplay.
5. Jimmy Peirson (wk) – A reliable finisher who has a striking rate of more than 150 in death overs.
6. Sam Heazlett – A handy all-rounder that adds depth to the lineup of hitters.
7. Michael Neser – A key bowler who is able to swing the new ball and contribute with his bat.
8. Matthew Kuhnemann – The left-arm spinner who thrives on Gabba’s bounce.
9. Xavier Bartlett – A promising pacer who has the ability to take wickets in the middle overs.
10. Spencer Johnson – A young pacer who has impressed me with his speed and precision.
11. Mark Steketee – The experienced campaigner who is the leader through the ball.

Sydney Sixers Team News

The Sydney Sixers have been one of the most stable teams this season, and their top players are firing all the right gears. Babar Azam has been an outstanding player, bringing stability and style in the middle. Josh Philippe and Moises Henriques are also in good form, ensuring that the Sixers have a solid batting core.

The bowling team, spearheaded by Sean Abbott and Ben Dwarshuis, has proven to be efficient in the death overs and powerplay. The Sixers will keep their balanced approach, with the help of all departments.

No injuries have been reported. The Sixers are expected to field their best XI.

Sydney Sixers Predicted XI:

1. Babar Azam – The Pakistani master who is the core of the Sixers Batting.
2. Josh Philippe (wk) – A fast-paced opener who can steal the game away with the powerplay.
3. Daniel Hughes – A dependable batter who is able to anchor the innings.
4. Moises Henriques (c) A seasoned skipper who offers stability for the middle-order.
5. Jordan Silk – A reliable finisher who is adept at scoring in pressure situations.
6. Jack Edwards – The all-rounder who has impressed with bat and ball.
7. Sean Abbott – The leading wicket-taker for the Sixers, famous for his death-bowling.
8. Ben Dwarshuis – A left-arm pacer who thrives in stressful situations.
9. Hayden Kerr – A versatile bowler who also plays with the bat.
10. Ben Manenti – A spinner who can add diversification to the attack.
11. Chris Jordan – The experienced T20 specialist who is an expert in the death overs.

BRH vs SYS Dream11 Prediction: Pitch & Weather Report

The Gabba Pitch Report

The Gabba, located in Brisbane, is among the most famous cricket venues in Australia, and is famous for its fast-paced surface and its consistent bounce. The surface here is ideal for batters, particularly in the first innings, since the ball is able to hit the bat in a perfect manner. However, pacers who hit the deck hard and get bounce will also benefit, especially in the first overs.

The average score for the first innings at The Gabba in the BBL is 175+, which makes it a venue that is high scoring. Teams that bat first usually try to score 180 or higher to feel secure. However, the team chasing has a major advantage by having 60% of wins for teams that bat second. The effect of dew plays a significant role in the evening game, making it more difficult for bowlers to grasp the ball during the second innings. This tends to tilt the balance to the side that is chasing.

Spinners might find it difficult to make enough turns, but bowlers who can vary their speed and utilize the size of the ground effectively can have an impact.

Weather Report: Brisbane

The weather forecast for Brisbane on the 18th of January, 2026, is predicted to be sunny and clear without rain interruptions. The temperature throughout the game is likely to be in the region of 30 °C with moderate levels of humidity. As the match moves into the evening, the conditions will be more suitable for players, but the influence of dew will be in play, which makes it beneficial for the team that bowls first.

With perfect conditions for the weather and a bat-friendly pitch, fans can look forward to an exciting, high-scoring game at The Gabba. Making the right choice by winning the toss and opting to bowl first may be the best option to both captains.

BRH vs SYS Dream11 Prediction: Best Dream11 Team for Today’s Match

The process of creating an effective Dream11 team for Brisbane Heat vs Sydney Sixers requires a well-balanced mix of batters who are in good form, bowlers, all-rounders, and batters who are able to take advantage of the playing conditions at The Gabba. Here’s a thorough overview of the best picks, player analysis, and suggested combinations of teams for small leagues (SL), grand leagues (GL), and head-to-head matches.

Top Picks for Dream11

Wicketkeepers

• Jimmy Peirson (BRH):
  The wicketkeeper-batter of the Heat has been an undisputed performer in the middle of the order, particularly in the dying overs. With an average strike rate of more than 150, and a solid selection for Dream11 teams.
• Josh Philippe (SYS):
  An active opener who can make the most of the powerplay. Philippe’s ability to score quick runs makes him an essential player on your team.

Batters

• Babar Azam (SYS):
  The Pakistani superstar has been in top form and has been a key player in the Sixers innings with his nimble stroke play. He’s a great captaincy pick due to his regularity and the ability to rack up huge.
• Usman Khawaja (BRH):
  The Heat skipper has led at the top, ensuring security at the top. His experience and skills make him an asset.
• Jordan Silk (SYS):
  Famous for his ability to finish, Silk has been a solid performer in pressure situations. Silk is a great option for stability in the middle order.

All-Rounders

• Jack Edwards (SYS):
  Edwards is a star this season, putting in ball and bat. With 10 wickets and a few run-rates in the lower orders, Edwards is a good all-rounder.
• Michael Neser (BRH):
  Neser’s ability swing the ball with a new design and also contribute using his bat makes him a crucial player for the Heat. He’s a great vice-captaincy option.

Bowlers

• Sean Abbott (SYS):
  The Sixers’ most prolific wicket-taker has been a star in the final overs. His ability to take crucial wickets makes him an essential.
• Matthew Kuhnemann (BRH):
  The left-arm spinner benefits from the Gabba’s bounce and has proved efficient in the middle overs.
• Xavier Bartlett (BRH):
  Bartlett’s ability through the power play as well as bowl economically spells makes him an excellent choice.

Dream11 Team Combinations

Small League (SL) Team

Concentrate on picking reliable performers and secure choices.

• Captain: Babar Azam
• Vice-Captain: Michael Neser

Player	Team	Role	Credits	Why Picked?
Jimmy Peirson	BRH	Wicketkeeper	8.5	Death-over finisher, more than SR 150.
Josh Philippe	SYS	Wicketkeeper	9.0	Explosive opener
Babar Azam	SYS	Batter	9.5	Consistent run-scorer
Usman Khawaja	BRH	Batter	9.0	Anchor with years of experience.
Jordan Silk	SYS	Batter	8.0	Reliable finisher
Jack Edwards	SYS	All-Rounder	8.5	10 wickets and a handy lower-order bat
Michael Neser	BRH	All-Rounder	9.0	Swing bowler, a lower-order batter
Sean Abbott	SYS	Bowler	9.0	Specialist in death-over
Matthew Kuhnemann	BRH	Bowler	8.0	Effective middle-over spinner
Xavier Bartlett	BRH	Bowler	8.5	Powerplay wicket-taker
Ben Dwarshuis	SYS	Bowler	8.5	Left-arm pacer, cost-effective

Grand League (GL) Team

Be aware of your risks by including different picks as well as making daring captaincy decisions.

• Captain: Jack Edwards
• Vice-Captain: Sean Abbott

Player	Team	Role	Credits	Why Picked?
Josh Philippe	SYS	Wicketkeeper	9.0	Powerplay aggressor
Jimmy Peirson	BRH	Wicketkeeper	8.5	Death-over finisher
Babar Azam	SYS	Batter	9.5	Consistent performer
Max Bryant	BRH	Batter	8.0	Power-hitter, high-risk option
Daniel Hughes	SYS	Batter	8.0	Anchors in the middle of the order
Jack Edwards	SYS	All-Rounder	8.5	All-round impact
Michael Neser	BRH	All-Rounder	9.0	Swing bowler and a lower-order batter
Sean Abbott	SYS	Bowler	9.0	Wicket-taker in crunch moments
Spencer Johnson	BRH	Bowler	8.0	Young pacer, differential pick
Hayden Kerr	SYS	Bowler	8.5	A versatile bowler, GL wildcard
Ben Manenti	SYS	Bowler	8.0	Spinner, G differential pick

Dream11 Captaincy Options

• Safe Picks:
  
  • Babar Azam: Consistent run-scorer perfect for SL teams.
  • Michael Neser: All-round contributions make him a trustworthy choice.
• Risky Picks:
  
  • Jack Edwards: High-impact player ideal for GL teams.
  • Sean Abbott: Can deliver big points by taking wickets in the final overs.

Dream11 Teams Summary

• Small League (SL): Concentrate on consistent performers such as Babar Azam as well as Michael Neser.
• Grand League (GL): Include extra picks like Spencer Johnson and Hayden Kerr to earn more rewards.

BRH vs SYS Match Prediction: Who Will Win?

The game between Brisbane Heat and Sydney Sixers at The Gabba promises to be an intense game with both teams in great form and tied for points on the table. However, a few variables could swing the balance to favor one team.

Why Sydney Sixers Could Win

The Sixers have a psychological advantage with a 14-7 head-to-head record against the Heat. Their batting line-up, which is led by Babar Azam, is in superb form and has seen regular contributions by Josh Philippe and Moises Henriques. The Sixers also have a well-rounded bowling attack and have Sean Abbott and Ben Dwarshuis excelling in both death overs and powerplay. Their ability to manage the pressure in crucial games is a reason they are slight favorites.

Why Brisbane Heat Could Win

The Heat have transformed The Gabba into a fortress this season with 6 wins out of 8 home matches. Their record-setting chase against the Perth Scorchers highlights their batting capability and depth. They are also able to thrive under pressure. With Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne in top form and a bowling attack that is adept at exploiting Gabba’s conditions The Heat are an impressive contender for the title.

Prediction

Although the Sixers have the edge head-to-head and in form, however, the Heat’s advantage at home, as well as the ability to chase, creates a 50-50 game. There is a slight advantage to the Sydney Sixers (55%) Based on the balance and experience.

Bettors who place bets on the Reddy Anna Book can use this knowledge to steer betting, while also maximising returns.

FAQs: BRH vs SYS Dream11 Prediction

Here are 10 FAQs to address common queries about the BRH vs SYS BBL 2026 match 40 for Dream11 Fantasy Tips