Sydney Sixers vs Melbourne Stars: The Sydney Sixers and Melbourne Stars face off in the eleventh match of the Big Bash League 2024-25. The Sixers are riding high, having won both of their matches so far, while the Stars are struggling, having lost all three of their games. This clash at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) promises excitement as both teams bring competitive lineups and high stakes to the field.
Match Details
- Match: 11th Match (D/N), Big Bash League 2024-25
- Date: December 26, 2024
- Time: 12:35 PM IST
- Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney
Pitch Report
Pitch Characteristics
- Nature of the Surface: The SCG surface is generally favorable for batting, offering true bounce and consistent carry. Pacers can extract early seam movement, but the pitch tends to flatten out, making it easier for batsmen to score freely. Spinners might find turn, so accuracy and variations will be crucial for the bowlers.
- Boundary Dimensions:
- Straight Boundaries: Approximately 80 meters, requiring powerful, well-timed hits for straight sixes.
- Square Boundaries: Around 65*75 meters, rewarding horizontal bat shots and quick running between wickets.
- Scoring Expectations:
- Powerplay Score: Teams typically aim for 45-55 runs in the first six overs, capitalizing on the hard new ball.
- Average First Innings Score: 158 runs.
- Competitive Total: 170+ can be challenging to chase.
Weather Impact
The weather is expected to be cool and mostly dry, with a slight chance of disruptions (10%). Evening conditions may favor swing bowlers early on, while the pitch is likely to remain favorable for batting under lights.
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Matches Played | 61 |
| Matches Won Defending | 30 |
| Matches Won Chasing | 30 |
| Matches Tied | 1 |
| Highest Successful Chase | 194 runs |
| Lowest Total Defended | 129 runs |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 158 runs |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 160 runs |
| Highest Score | Sydney Sixers 213/4 |
| Lowest Score | Melbourne Stars 61/10 |
Scoring Pattern
| Score Range | Matches |
|---|---|
| Below 150 | 22 |
| 150-180 | 18 |
| 180-200 | 13 |
| 200 or Above | 8 |
Head-to-Head Record
| Statistic | Sixers | Stars |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Matches Played | 22 | 22 |
| Wins | 14 | 8 |
| At Sydney Cricket Ground | 5 | 3 |
Last 5 Meetings
- 06-Jan-2024: Sixers won by 7 wickets.
- 26-Dec-2023: Stars won by 4 wickets.
- 06-Jan-2023: Sixers won by 6 wickets.
- 25-Dec-2022: Sixers won by 7 wickets.
- 15-Dec-2021: Sixers won by 7 wickets.
Team News
Sydney Sixers:
Moises Henriques leads a confident squad with strong performances so far. The batting lineup, featuring Josh Philippe and James Vince, promises explosive starts, while Henriques and Jordan Silk anchor the middle order. Akeal Hosein and Ben Dwarshuis spearhead the bowling attack, ensuring a balanced team ready to dominate.
Melbourne Stars:
Marcus Stoinis and his team are under pressure, with their form faltering this season. Sam Harper has been the only consistent performer with the bat, while Glenn Maxwell and Stoinis aim to add stability. Adam Milne and Peter Siddle need to strike early to challenge the Sixers’ form.
Sydney Sixers vs Melbourne Stars Playing 11
Sydney Sixers Playing XI:
- Moises Henriques (c)
- Josh Philippe (wk)
- James Vince
- Jack Edwards
- Jordan Silk
- Lachlan Shaw
- Joel Davies
- Ben Dwarshuis
- Sean Abbott
- Akeal Hosein
- Todd Murphy
Melbourne Stars Playing XI:
- Marcus Stoinis (c)
- Ben Duckett
- Thomas Rogers
- Glenn Maxwell
- Hilton Cartwright
- Beau Webster
- Sam Harper (wk)
- Tom Curran
- Doug Warren
- Adam Milne
- Peter Siddle
Squads
Sydney Sixers:
Sean Abbott, Jackson Bird, Jafer Chohan, Joel Davies, Ben Dwarshuis, Jack Edwards, Moises Henriques, Akeal Hosein, Daniel Hughes, Hayden Kerr, Ben Manenti, Todd Murphy, Kurtis Patterson, Mitchell Perry, Josh Philippe (wk), Jordan Silk, Steven Smith, James Vince.
Melbourne Stars:
Scott Boland, Hilton Cartwright, Joe Clarke, Brody Couch, Tom Curran, Ben Duckett, Sam Harper (wk), Campbell Kellaway, Glenn Maxwell, Hamish McKenzie, Jonathan Merlo, Adam Milne, Joel Paris, Thomas Rogers, Peter Siddle, Mark Steketee, Marcus Stoinis, Usama Mir, Doug Warren, Beau Webster.
Key Players to Watch
Sydney Sixers:
- Josh Philippe: Known for explosive starts at the top.
- Moises Henriques: Brings experience and leadership to the middle order.
- Ben Dwarshuis: A consistent performer with the ball.
Melbourne Stars:
- Sam Harper: The lone bright spot in the batting lineup.
- Glenn Maxwell: Can turn games with his all-round skills.
- Adam Milne: Needs to strike early with the new ball.
Fantasy XI
- Batters: Josh Philippe, James Vince, Ben Duckett, Glenn Maxwell
- All-rounders: Marcus Stoinis (C), Moises Henriques, Beau Webster (VC)
- Bowlers: Ben Dwarshuis, Adam Milne, Akeal Hosein, Peter Siddle
Sydney Sixers vs Melbourne Stars Prediction
The Sydney Sixers have been the more consistent team this season and boast a stronger batting lineup. However, the Melbourne Stars’ bowling attack and key players like Glenn Maxwell make them formidable challengers. Expect a competitive, high-scoring game.
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