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STA vs THU Match Prediction [Source: @StarsBBL, @ThunderBBL/x.com]
Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thunder are gearing up to face off in Match 14 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 at the Manuka Oval in Canberra on Saturday, December 28. Both teams are coming into this one with stinging defeats, so expect sparks to fly as they battle to get their campaign back on track.
Stars Looking For A Miracle
Melbourne Stars have been in free fall this season. Four games, four losses, and nothing seems to be clicking for them. They’re rooted to the bottom of the table, and the pressure is mounting. Their latest drubbing came at the hands of Sydney Sixers, who chased down 195-run target with ease, handing the Stars an eight-wicket loss.
Ben Duckett was the only real silver lining for the Stars. He smashed a stunning 68 off just 29 balls, and Glenn Maxwell added a quick-fire 32 off 17. But the rest of the batting order fell like a pack of cards. Marcus Stoinis, Sam Harper, and Thomas Rogers couldn’t hold their ground, leaving the Stars short of a winning total.
If you thought their batting was dismal, their bowling was a nightmare. Stoinis, Maxwell, and Doug Warren got clobbered left, right, and centre, going wicketless in the process. Tom Curran and Usama Mir did manage to pick up two wickets, but they were expensive as well. For the Stars, the bowling unit needs to stop leaking runs like a broken tap if they’re to stand a chance.
Thunder Searching For Consistency
Sydney Thunder haven’t had it easy either. They’re coming off a tough five-wicket loss to their city rivals, Sydney Sixers. After being asked to bat first, they managed a respectable 163/5, thanks to Cameron Bancroft, who anchored the innings with an unbeaten 70 off 52 balls. Oliver Davies chipped in with a useful 47 off 34.
However, their big names didn’t show up. David Warner and Sherfane Rutherford had forgettable outings, leaving the Thunder short of a winning total. The bowlers didn’t have much to cheer about either.
Lockie Ferguson was the pick of the lot with two wickets, while Daniel Sams grabbed one. But Nathan McAndrew went wicketless, and Chris Green got hammered all over the park. Thunder need their entire squad to click if they want to bounce back.
STA vs THU Head-To-Head Record
| Categories | Melbourne Stars | Sydney Thunder |
|---|---|---|
| Matches Played | 20 | 20 |
| Matches Won | 10 | 10 |
| Matches Lost | 10 | 10 |
| No Result | 0 | 0 |
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How Will The Manuka Oval Pitch Behave?
The Manuka Oval pitch is a batter’s surface. The true bounce and even pace make it a dream for stroke-makers. While pacers might get a little movement early on, the pitch only gets better as the game progresses. The last game here saw a target of 182 chased down comfortably, so the team winning the toss will likely choose to bowl first.
Players To Watch Out For In STA vs THU
Melbourne Stars
Marcus Stoinis
Marcus Stoinis has been a consistent performer as he has scored 249 runs in the last 10 matches at an average of 35.57 and a strike rate of 140.67. His ability to provide blistering starts with power hitting makes him a vital asset for Melbourne Stars.
Glenn Maxwell
Glenn Maxwell has been explosive as he accumulated 225 runs in 8 matches at an average of 37.5 and an incredible strike rate of 197.36. Known for his innovative shots, he can be a game-changer for the Stars.
Peter Siddle
Peter Siddle has claimed 4 wickets in his last 4 matches with an economy of 7.06 and a strike rate of 19.75. His experience and ability to bowl in pressure situations add value to Melbourne Stars’ bowling attack.
Adam Milne
Adam Milne has also contributed with the ball as he has snagged 3 wickets in the last 3 matches with an economy of 8.7 and a strike rate of 20.00. His swimg bowling at the top makes him indispensable for the Stars.
Sydney Thunder
Cameron Bancroft
Cameron Bancroft has scored 281 runs in the last 10 matches at an average of 31.22 and a strike rate of 115.63. His steady contributions at the top of the order provide Sydney Thunder with reliable starts.
Oliver Davies
Oliver Davies has amassed 206 runs in the last 10 matches at an average of 20.6 with a strike rate of 132.05. His aggressive batting style adds depth to Thunder’s middle order.
Daniel Sams
Daniel Sams has been effective, having grabbed 13 wickets in 9 matches with an economy of 9.06 and a strike rate of 15.23. His ability to deliver in the death overs will be crucial for Sydney Thunder.
Tanveer Sangha
Tanveer Sangha has taken 8 wickets in his last 9 matches with an economy of 6.74 and a strike rate of 25.5. His control and consistency in the middle overs make him a reliable spinner for Thunder.
Today's Match Prediction: STA vs THU
Predicted Top Performers
Melbourne Stars – Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Peter Siddle
Sydney Thunder – Cameron Bancroft, Oliver Davies, Daniel Sams
STA vs THU 1st Test: Predicted Score
Predicted first innings score: 180-200
Predicted second innings score: 185-205
Predicted Result: The team bowling first will likely have an advantage in this match.
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