Australian cricket legend Peter Siddle, once celebrated for his fiery pace bowling and relentless work ethic across 67 Tests and countless Big Bash League appearances, has found himself thrust into an unexpected spotlight—not for wickets, but for his personal life. The 41-year-old fast bowler has become the target of online mockery and podcast jabs over his relationship with girlfriend Hannah Burgess, with the perceived age gap sparking a wave of crude humor that has turned a private milestone into public punchlines.

The saga began when Siddle reached a significant career landmark: his 100th Big Bash League match. To mark the occasion, he shared a heartfelt Instagram post featuring a photo with Burgess, who congratulated him warmly. The image, showing the couple smiling together, quickly drew attention. On the popular sports podcast Off-Field Drama, hosts Stirling Farquhar and Samuel Burke seized on it, joking that Siddle (misquoted as 40) was in a “40/20” relationship—referencing NRL star Nathan Cleary’s famous long kicks. “Peter Siddle, they’re calling him Nathan Cleary… yeah, 40/20,” Farquhar quipped, escalating into more suggestive banter about sleepovers and family dynamics.

The jokes spread rapidly across social media and news outlets, with headlines labeling Siddle the “butt of jokes” over a supposed massive age disparity. Some outlets amplified the humor, while others noted the inaccuracy: Siddle is actually 41, born November 25, 1984. Burgess’s exact age remains private, but clues point to her being in her mid-to-late 20s—she recently celebrated a university graduation (likely around age 22–25) and playfully commented on Siddle’s milestone post: “Guess which one of us played their 100th big bash game and which one turned 20 something!” The quip acknowledged the gap without defensiveness, suggesting the couple is comfortable with it.

Yet beneath the snark lies a quieter, more endearing story that’s resonating with many fans. Siddle and Burgess went Instagram official in November 2024, when she posted a birthday tribute calling him “the best,” accompanied by affectionate photos. Siddle reciprocated by sharing the same image on his feed—the first time a partner had appeared publicly since his 2022 split from ex-wife Anna Weatherlake after five years of marriage. That divorce was amicable but high-profile, with Weatherlake (an influencer) moving on quickly.

In contrast, Siddle’s relationship with Burgess appears grounded and supportive. He publicly congratulated her on her graduation last month, sharing pride in her achievements. Burgess has been spotted at his matches, offering encouragement during his ongoing BBL campaign with the Sydney Thunder (or whichever team he’s with in 2025/26). Friends describe them as a genuine match: Siddle, known for his down-to-earth nature and vegetarian lifestyle (influenced by past partners), has found someone who shares his low-key vibe amid the high-pressure world of professional sport.

The mockery, while stinging, hasn’t overshadowed the couple’s happiness. Many supporters have pushed back online, defending the relationship as consensual and adult. “Age gaps aren’t automatic red flags when everyone’s happy,” one fan commented. Others highlight Siddle’s character—his resilience through injuries, his Test hat-trick heroics, and his post-retirement contributions to cricket coaching and commentary—arguing he deserves privacy and respect.

As the jokes fade, the real narrative emerging is one of quiet contentment. Siddle, who retired from international cricket in 2019 but continues dominating domestic leagues, has transitioned into a new chapter personally and professionally. With Burgess by his side, the “cruel punchline” phase may prove short-lived. In an era of relentless scrutiny, their story reminds us that love stories—imperfect, age-gapped, and human—often win hearts when given space to breathe.