BBL 2024-25, Match 1 | PS vs MS Preview: Key Players And Stats, Live Streaming, Pitch Report, Probable XIs

Perth Scorchers to face Melbourne Stars in opening BBL match [Source: @FoxCricket/X.com]

The Big Bash League 2024-25 season is set to kick off from December 14, with Perth Scorchers and Melbourne Stars scheduled to clash in the tournament opening game. The exciting matchup will commence from 1.45 PM IST at the Perth Stadium.

PS vs MS: Match Details And Live Streaming

PS vs MS: Perth Scorchers 

Perth Scorchers, four-time BBL winners, will enter the tournament as favourites to clinch the title. They haven’t finished outside of the top four in each of the previous four seasons. Last year, they finished in third place and missed the finals by a whisker. However, this year, the Scorchers will be back with a renewed sense of purpose. 

Ashton Turner will lead the side, with Finn Allen and Sam Fanning being key contributors. Mitchell Marsh will be unavailable due to national duties, with Andrew Tye and Jason Behrendoff leading the pace attack. Overall, the squad appears balanced and competitive.

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PS vs MS: Melbourne Stars

Melbourne Stars, in search of their maiden BBL title, will enter the BBL 2024-25 season under the leadership of Marcus Stoinis. Stars were eliminated in sixth place in the previous edition due to a lack of a competitive side. However, this year, the Stars appear much more strong and balanced. 

Ben Duckett and Glenn Maxwell are expected to be leading contributors with the bat, whereas Mark Steketee and Joel Paris will lead the bowling attack. Scott Boland is a key missing piece as he remains with the Australian Test side for the Border-Gavaskar Series. Overall, the Melbourne Stars stand a decent chance to triumph over the Scorchers and kick-start the BBL 2024-25 season with a bang.

PS vs MS: Pitch Report

The pitch at Perth Stadium often suits fast bowlers for its pace and bouncy nature. Spinners typically have a lesser role, but those who can vary their pace and trajectory may find some assistance as the game progresses. For batters, the surface offers value for shots, with a quick outfield adding to the scoring potential. 

Power hitters thrive once they get set, as the true nature of the pitch allows them to play their shots freely. Scores around 160–180 are considered competitive, although high-scoring thrillers are not uncommon. Teams winning the toss often prefer to chase. However, light showers are likely to cause interruption and might influence the results of the game.

PS vs MS: Key Players & Stats

• Ashton Turner: 668 runs at the Perth Stadium
• Andrew Tye: 28 wickets in 15 innings for Stars, highest wicket-taker
• Aaron Hardie: 933 runs and 23 wickets since 2023
• Marcus Stoinis: 2666 runs and 39 wickets in BBL history

PS vs MS: Probable Playing XIs

Perth Scorchers: Finn Allen, Cooper Connolly, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis (WK), Ashton Turner (C), Nick Hobson, Ashton Agar, Jhye Richardson, Andrew Tye, Jason Behrendorff, Lance Morris

Melbourne Stars: Sam Harper (WK), Tom Rogers, Cambpell Kellaway, Marcus Stoinis (C), Hilton Cartwright, Beau Webster, Tom Curran, Brody Couch, Mark Steketee, Joel Paris, Hamish McKenzie

PS vs MS: Winner Prediction

Perth Scorchers and Melbourne Stars look quite even for the tournament opener. However, given the squad strength, the Scorchers have an edge and will likely win this game.

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