MS vs ST Match Analysis
The Big Bash League caravan moves to the nation’s capital as the Melbourne Stars face off against the Sydney Thunder at Manuka Oval, Canberra. This is a fascinating contest scheduled for an afternoon start at 2:15 PM local time.
The Melbourne Stars seem to have finally found the rhythm that has often eluded them in previous seasons. They cannot afford to be complacent. While their middle order and all-rounders are firing, the top-order stability remains a slight concern.
On the other hand, the Sydney Thunder arrives in Canberra searching for answers. Their last outing against the Sixers was a stark reminder of their fragility. They possess a bowling attack capable of brilliance, led by Daniel Sams and Reece Topley, but they must find consistency.
Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Thunder Team Preview & Squads
Melbourne Stars
The Stars are led by the imposing Marcus Stoinis, whose leadership was exemplified in the last game where he secured the Player of the Match award with a dazzling 62* and 2 wickets. He brings a level of aggression and tactical flexibility that the MS desperately need.
In terms of batting depth, the Stars have a lineup that is dangerous once it gets going, though it can be top-heavy. The return of Joe Clarke provides class at the top, but the team is looking for Campbell Kellaway to convert starts into substantial scores.
The bowling attack is shaping up to be a mix of raw pace and guile. Haris Rauf brings express speed that can unsettle any batter, while the veteran Peter Siddle offers control and death-over expertise. The role of Glenn Maxwell as an all-rounder is pivotal; his off-spin will be crucial in the middle overs, especially against Thunder’s left-handers.
Regarding their last match performance, the MS were clinically efficient against the Hurricanes in Melbourne. Restricting the opposition to 158/9 was a collective bowling effort, followed by a chase that was never really in doubt. Winning by 8 wickets with four overs to spare does wonders for the Net Run Rate and dressing room morale.
Melbourne Stars Squads
Melbourne Stars Squads
Marcus Stoinis (C), Austin Anlezark, Aryan Sharma, Scott Boland, Hilton Cartwright, Joe Clarke, Tom Curran, Haris Rauf, Sam Harper (WK), Liam Hatcher, Campbell Kellaway, Glenn Maxwell, Hamish McKenzie, Jonathan Merlo, Tom Rogers, Peter Siddle, Mark Steketee, Mitchell Swepson, Tom Whitney
Sydney Thunder
David Warner captains the ST, and all eyes will be on him to set the tone at the top of the order. As a veteran campaigner, Warner knows that his performance often dictates the energy of the entire side.
ST batting strength lies in its explosive potential, specifically the top order involving Warner and the class of Sam Billings. However, as seen against the Sixers, the middle order struggles to maintain momentum if the openers fall cheaply.
The Thunder certainly have plenty of tricks up their sleeve with the ball, but they just couldn’t hit their marks in the last game. Reece Topley provides height and left-arm angle, while Daniel Sams is a proven wicket-taker in the BBL, although he can be expensive.
Their last match was a forgettable affair at the SCG, losing the Sydney Smash by a significant 47-run margin. Chasing 199, they crumbled under pressure, bowled out for 151 in the 20th over. The bowlers were taken apart by Josh Philippe, and the batters failed to build partnerships. They need a complete turnaround in attitude and execution to challenge the high-flying Stars.
Sydney Thunder Squads
Sydney Thunder Squads
David Warner (C), Wes Agar, Charlie Anderson, Tom Andrews, Cameron Bancroft, Sam Billings (WK), Pat Cummins, Oliver Davies, Lockie Ferguson, Matthew Gilkes, Chris Green, Ryan Hadley, Sam Konstas, Nic Maddinson, Nathan McAndrew, Blake Nikitaras, Aidan O’Connor, Daniel Sams, Tanveer Sangha, Shadab Khan, Reece Topley
Match Details | |
Match | Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Thunder | 14th Match | Big Bash League 2025-26 |
Date | 28/12/2025 (Sunday) |
Time | BDT 2:15 PM / PKT 01:15 PM / INR 01:45 PM |
Format | T20 |
Venue | Manuka Oval, Canberra |
Recent performance | Melbourne Stars – W W W L W Sydney Thunder – W W L L L |
Live Streaming Details | Click here to watch the Live Stream on Sports Live Hub(SLH) |
MS vs ST Outfield Report
Manuka Oval, Canberra
Manuka Oval is generally renowned as one of the fairest batting surfaces in Australia, offering true bounce and good value for shots. However, being a day game, the pitch might be slightly drier, potentially bringing spinners into the game earlier than usual.
Conditions in Canberra for a late December afternoon are expected to be warm and sunny, with temperatures likely hovering in the high 20s (Celsius). Since this is a day game starting at 2:15 PM, the dew factor will be non-existent, meaning the team bowling second won’t have to worry about a wet ball.
The Powerplay strategy will be vital; the outfield at Manuka is pristine and fast, rewarding grounded shots. The Stars will look to capitalize on the hard new ball with Rauf and Siddle, while the Thunder’s fielding unit, which was sloppy in the last game, needs to tighten up.
Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Thunder Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches
Despite the current form guide favoring the Stars, history tells a very different story. Sydney Thunder has a significant recent advantage over the Melbourne Stars, winning the last five consecutive matches, proving they have the psychological edge regardless of venue or conditions.
MS vs ST Prediction
Event | Melbourne Stars | Sydney Thunder |
Toss Winner | – | Sydney Thunder |
Player of the Match | Glenn Maxwell | – |
Top Run Scorer | Joe Clarke | David Warner |
Top Wicket Taker | Haris Rauf | Daniel Sams |
Most Sixes | Glenn Maxwell | David Warner |
Predicted Score | 175+ | 160+ |
Win Probability | 55% | 45% |
According to cricket analysts, Melbourne Stars have a 55% chance of Winning.
Disclaimer: This cricket prediction reflects the author’s personal insights and analysis. We encourage readers to review the points shared and draw their own conclusions.
Want to stay one step ahead in the cricket world?
At JeetBuzz News, discover in-depth Match Predictions, expert analysis, and real-time updates on all your favorite fixtures. Don’t just follow the game—dive into the action with us today!
