Hopes returns home as Queensland, Brisbane Heat head coach

Former Australian allrounder James Hopes has been appointed as the new head coach of Queensland Bulls and Brisbane Heat, marking a homecoming for one of Queensland cricket’s most familiar faces.

The appointment comes in a surprising turn of events, just two months after Hopes accepted the head coach role with the Sydney Sixers. Hopes said returning to Queensland and relocating back to Brisbane with his family made the decision impossible to ignore.

“I wrestled with this decision, as I remain grateful for the opportunity offered by the Sixers,” Hopes said. “But the chance to lead Queensland and return home to Brisbane was simply too special to pass up.”

Hopes replaces the outgoing setup after former Australia captain Tim Paine withdrew late from the coaching process.

A long-serving Queensland stalwart, Hopes joined the state setup as a teenager and later became the 49th captain of Queensland, leading the side to a Sheffield Shield title in 2012 and back-to-back One-Day Cup titles in 2012-13 and 2013-14.

As a player, Hopes represented Australia national cricket team in 84 ODIs and 12 T20Is, while building an outstanding domestic record with more than 5,000 first-class runs and nearly 300 wickets for Queensland.

Queensland Cricket CEO Terry Svenson backed the appointment, praising Hopes’ leadership and ability to nurture emerging talent.

“James is the right person to guide and develop our players, especially the exciting young talent coming through Queensland cricket,” Svenson said.

The move leaves the Sydney Sixers searching for a new head coach once again. The club acknowledged disappointment but respected Hopes’ decision and confirmed the search for a replacement would restart.

Hopes currently remains active in franchise cricket, working under Ricky Ponting at Washington Freedom in MLC. He has also previously worked with Hobart Hurricanes, Tasmania, and as an assistant coach with Punjab Kings in the IPL.

His appointment adds to a period of significant coaching changes across Australian cricket, with several state and BBL teams undergoing leadership transitions ahead of the new season.