Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Thunder: The Melbourne Stars face off against the Sydney Thunder in the 14th match of the Big Bash League 2024-25. The Stars are desperate for a turnaround after losing all four games, while the Thunder aim to build on their recent win and find consistency. This match at the scenic Manuka Oval promises an exciting clash between two determined teams.
Match Details
- Match: 14th Match (N), Big Bash League 2024-25
- Date: December 28, 2024
- Time: 1:45 PM IST
- Venue: Manuka Oval, Canberra
Pitch Report
Nature of the Surface:
The Manuka Oval pitch is a flat wicket with short square boundaries, favoring batters who excel with horizontal bat strokes. Pacers get some early assistance, while spinners struggle to find grip on this surface.
Boundary Dimensions:
- Straight Boundaries: Approximately 78 meters
- Square Boundaries: Around 66 meters
Scoring Expectations:
- Powerplay Score: Teams typically aim for 40-45 runs in the first six overs.
- Average First Innings Score: 164 runs.
- Competitive Total: A target of 170-180 runs could challenge the chasing side.
Weather Impact
Clear skies are expected over Canberra, making conditions perfect for T20 cricket. With no rain forecasted, uninterrupted play is likely.
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Matches Played | 24 |
| Matches Won Defending | 8 |
| Matches Won Chasing | 16 |
| Highest Successful Chase | 183/8 (Thunder vs Strikers, Dec 17, 2024) |
| Lowest Total Defended | 129 runs |
| Highest Score | 219/7 (Thunder, vs Stars, 2021) |
| Lowest Score | 122/8 (Stars) |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 164 runs |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 137 runs |
Scoring Pattern
| Score Range | Matches |
|---|---|
| Below 150 | 7 |
| 150-170 | 8 |
| 170-190 | 7 |
| Above 190 | 2 |
Head-to-Head Record
| Statistic | Stars | Thunder |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Matches Played | 20 | 20 |
| Wins | 10 | 10 |
| At Manuka Oval | 1 | 3 |
Team News
Melbourne Stars:
The Stars are winless in four matches, struggling with both bat and ball. Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell must step up to salvage their campaign. Ben Duckett and Thomas Rogers showed glimpses of form, but the middle order lacks consistency. The bowling unit, led by Peter Siddle, needs breakthroughs to contain high-scoring opponents like the Thunder.
Sydney Thunder:
Sydney Thunder have been inconsistent, coming off a narrow loss to the Sixers. David Warner’s form at the top is crucial, supported by Bancroft and Maddinson. The middle order, featuring Oliver Davies and Sherfane Rutherford, adds firepower. Their bowling attack, led by Lockie Ferguson and Daniel Sams, has potential but must improve discipline to outplay the Stars.
Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Thunder Playing XI
Melbourne Stars Playing XI:
- Marcus Stoinis (c)
- Sam Harper (wk)
- Ben Duckett
- Glenn Maxwell
- Thomas Fraser Rogers
- Hilton Cartwright
- Tom Curran
- Jonathan Merlo
- Usama Mir
- Doug Warren
- Peter Siddle
Sydney Thunder Playing XI:
- David Warner (c)
- Nic Maddinson
- Cameron Bancroft
- Oliver Davies
- Sam Billings (wk)
- Sherfane Rutherford
- Chris Green
- Daniel Sams
- Nathan McAndrew
- Lockie Ferguson
- Tanveer Sangha
Key Players to Watch
Melbourne Stars:
- Marcus Stoinis: Needs to lead by example with both bat and ball.
- Glenn Maxwell: Dangerous with his power-hitting and handy off-spin.
- Peter Siddle: Crucial for early breakthroughs with the new ball.
Sydney Thunder:
- David Warner: Can change the game with an explosive start.
- Cameron Bancroft: In great form and a key anchor for the batting lineup.
- Daniel Sams: Effective with both bat and ball in crucial moments.
Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Thunder Fantasy XI
Batters: David Warner (C), Cameron Bancroft, Glenn Maxwell, Ben Duckett
All-rounders: Marcus Stoinis (VC), Daniel Sams
Bowlers: Peter Siddle, Nathan McAndrew, Lockie Ferguson, Tanveer Sangha, Usama Mir
Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Thunder Prediction
Sydney Thunder hold the edge with a more balanced lineup, but the Stars will be desperate to register their first win. Expect a competitive game with Thunder starting as favorites.
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