James Hopes, a former all-rounder for Australia, has left his position as head coach of the Sydney Sixers less than two months after taking over. He has chosen to return to Australia and take up a three-year position as head coach of the Brisbane Heat and Queensland Bulls. Hopes had been appointed by the Sixers on a two-year contract on May 4, replacing Greg Shipperd, who guided the club to the BBL final last season. He is currently part of the Washington Freedom coaching staff in Major League Cricket and will begin his new role with Queensland next month. "I wrestled with this decision as I was, and still am, very appreciative of being offered the Sixers role earlier this year," Hopes said. "However, to have the opportunity to take on the head coaching program with Queensland and live in Brisbane again was too good to miss. "I have been in and out of Queensland Cricket since I was 14 and along the way was privileged to play for the Bulls and the Heat. So, to be a part of that again is something very special to me and my family."During his playing career, the 47-year-old captain led Queensland to the Sheffield Shield title in 2012 and back-to-back one-day trophies in 2012-13 and 2013-14. He also captained the Brisbane Heat. After retiring in 2016, Hopes, a foundation player and the Heat's inaugural captain, transitioned into coaching after playing for Tasmania, the Hobart Hurricanes, and franchise cricket overseas. "While the Club is disappointed by this decision, we understand the significance of this opportunity for him and his family, and we wish him all the very best," the Sixers said in a statement. "We look forward to progressing with the appointment of our new BBL Head Coach," the Sydney Sixers stated. "The Sydney Sixers were impressed by the calibre of coaches who applied for the role." In recent years, Hopes has primarily worked as a specialist bowling coach in franchise cricket, including stints as a coach for the Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League. He was the bowling coach for Punjab Kings during IPL 2026 prior to his current role as MLC.