'Incredibly disappointed': State coach departs after losing BBL Final

The Sydney Sixers have confirmed that coach Greg Shipperd will no longer be in charge of the club after 11 seasons in charge.

The 69-year-old, throughout his tenure, helped the side maintain its status as one of the premier BBL sides, having led them to the BBL|09 and BBL|10 championships.

He also took the Sixers to a further four Grand Finals which they were unable to win.

In a statement, Sydney Sixers GM, Rachael Haynes, would thank the former Western Australian and Tasmanian first-class representative for all he has done for the team.

“Greg’s contribution to the Sydney Sixers over eight seasons has been immense, and we are incredibly grateful for everything he has given to this club,” Haynes said.

“He has led the team through finals campaigns, delivered championships, and consistently set high standards across our program.”

“Greg’s leadership, integrity and care for people have shaped our playing group and staff, and his influence will be felt long beyond his tenure.

“We thank him wholeheartedly for his dedication and service. He will be missed by players and staff alike, and we wish him every success in the next chapter of his distinguished career.”

That also coincides with Cricket NSW releasing a statement stating that Shipperd will depart from his role as coach of the NSW Blues at the end of the 2025/26 domestic season, which will be in March.

This would be where Shipperd expressed his disappointment, considering he was contracted for another season.

“Cricket NSW is such a historical and beautiful beast and it has been an honour and privilege to coach the NSW Blues and Sydney Sixers for such a period," he stated.

“The organisation is made of folk from the country to the city and of all dimensions - sports lovers, builders of community, a vehicle for good.

“With 10 NSW-contracted players, not including the big five Test players, engaged in Australian and Australian A duties, domestic finals still beckoning and more good stories abounding, the future is promising.

"My contract was to conclude at the end of the 2026/27 season and so I’m incredibly disappointed that I will not have the opportunity to honour my commitment and continue to develop the wonderful young players I have been working with. 

"I am extremely proud of my coaching team for building the foundation of a new generation and I wish them all success beyond my time here."

During his four-year tenure at Cricket NSW, the former batter managed to get the Blues into the 2023/24 One Day Cup final.

Shipperd has coached in every season of the Big Bash League, having previously been in charge of the Melbourne Stars for their first four seasons before departing.