The move marks an abrupt end to Hopes’ stint with the Sixers, where he was appointed on a two-year contract in early May to succeed long-serving coach Greg Shipperd. However, he departs before taking charge of a single match.
A Homecoming too good to turn down
Hopes admitted the decision was far from straightforward, but the opportunity to return to Queensland—a state where he spent the majority of his playing career, ultimately proved impossible to reject.
“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. To be part of that again is something very special to me and my family,” Hopes added.
The opportunity reportedly arose after former Australia captain Tim Paine, who had been in contention for the Queensland coaching position, withdrew from the recruitment process. Queensland Cricket subsequently offered Hopes the combined role overseeing both the Bulls and the Heat.
Returning to familiar territory
Few coaches understand Queensland cricket better than Hopes. During his playing days, he captained both Queensland and the Brisbane Heat, guiding the Bulls to the 2012 Sheffield Shield title and successive domestic one-day championships in 2012-13 and 2013-14.
He also holds a special place in Brisbane Heat history as the franchise’s inaugural captain following the launch of the Big Bash League.
Since retiring from professional cricket in 2016, Hopes has built an impressive coaching résumé. He has worked with Tasmania, the Hobart Hurricanes, and several T20 franchises around the world, earning a strong reputation as a bowling coach. His recent assignments include coaching roles with Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings in the IPL, while he is currently part of the Washington Freedom coaching staff in Major League Cricket.
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