Shai Hope is back in purple. The West Indies white-ball captain has signed with the Hobart Hurricanes for all of BBL|16, two years after a short first stint during their championship season.
Hope, 32, is the Hurricanes’ first overseas signing of the summer. He’ll bat at the top of the order and take the gloves, filling the gaps left by Matthew Wade’s retirement. This time he’s available for the full season, unlike his five-game stint in BBL|14.
Why Hobart brought him back
Hope has 1700-plus T20I runs at a strike rate above 136, and captains West Indies in ODIs and T20Is. High performance boss Salliann Beams said having him all tournament gives the side real stability.
Here’s the fan angle. The announcement split supporters. Many welcomed back a class player who knows the club. Others weren’t convinced, calling him not a natural T20 hitter after a quiet first stint. He’s replacing Wade, a 119-game club legend. Hope just has to be the best version of himself.
Why did the Hurricanes sign Shai Hope?
To replace Matthew Wade at the top of the order and behind the stumps, and play the full season.
Who did Hobart lose before BBL|16?
Jordan’s deal expired and he moved to the Sixers. Wade retired. Zampa joined from the Renegades.
Is Hope available for the whole tournament?
Yes. That was a key reason Hobart signed him, after his five-game stint in BBL|14.
Last verified: 11 October 2026