Hobart Hurricanes captain Nathan Ellis has downplayed concerns after suffering a frightening on-field collision during his side’s dominant Big Bash League (BBL) win over the Sydney Thunder, though the fast bowler has since been ruled out of the upcoming Knockout final.
The incident occurred in the 15th over of the Thunder innings when Ellis dived full length near the boundary rope in an attempt to prevent a four.
His effort ended with a heavy, head-first crash into the advertising boards, prompting immediate concern from commentators and medical staff.
Television replays showed Ellis colliding with the sharp edge of the LED signage, leading to a lengthy on-field assessment.
Despite the scare, Ellis remarkably returned to the field shortly afterwards and completed his bowling duties.
Speaking after the match, the Hurricanes skipper explained that a slip at the crucial moment caused the impact but insisted he felt fine following medical checks.
Medical staff conducted all necessary concussion protocols, and Ellis later confirmed he was cleared to continue.
Hobart went on to comfortably chase down Sydney’s 6 for 164 with 19 balls to spare at Ninja Stadium, extending their winning streak to five matches.
Tim David starred in the run chase with an explosive unbeaten 68 from 38 balls. Promoted to number five after Ben McDermott suffered hamstring soreness while fielding, David took full advantage of the power surge, smashing 26 runs off a single over to swing the momentum firmly in Hobart’s favour.
He sealed the six-wicket victory with a towering six, his sixth maximum of the innings.
The Hurricanes’ strong form has established them as genuine title contenders heading into the finals, having climbed the ladder after missing out on playoff qualification in the previous two seasons.
However, Hobart’s campaign has taken a significant hit with confirmation that Ellis will miss the Knockout final against the Melbourne Stars.
The Hurricanes revealed that Ellis picked up an injury during a recent match against the Brisbane Heat, though the exact nature of the issue has not been disclosed.
His availability for the remainder of the finals will be assessed over the coming days.
Ellis has been a vital cog in Hobart’s bowling attack, leading the wicket charts with 14 scalps at an average of 21.28 while performing key roles across all phases of the innings. In his absence, Ben McDermott will take over the captaincy.
The Hurricanes’ finals hopes remain alive, with a win or washout against the Stars enough to send them through to the Challenger final.
Australia’s selectors have also opted to rest Ellis from the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan, with the fast bowler omitted from the Australia T20I squad as part of workload management ahead of the World Cup.
