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Melbourne Cricket Ground Pitch Report For STA vs SIX BBL 2024-25 Match 28

Rajgeeta∙ Updated: Jan 8 2025, 2:52 PM

Melbourne Cricket Ground [Source: @MCG/X.com]Melbourne Cricket Ground [Source: @MCG/X.com]

Melbourne Stars will take on the Sydney Sixers in the 28th match of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25. This highly anticipated clash will be held at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on January 9. While the Sixers will aim to solidify their position at the top of the table, the Stars will be fighting for survival.

The Melbourne Stars endured a tough start, suffering five consecutive defeats. However, they have recently shown signs of resurgence by winning their last two matches. Despite their late push, they remain at the bottom of the table.

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On the other hand, Sydney Sixers have been in excellent form, winning four of their six matches. Their only loss came early in the tournament, while one game was abandoned due to rain. With a net run rate of +0.228, the Sixers are sitting comfortably at the top of the table and will be keen to extend their dominance.

Both teams will indeed be putting their pads on for the contest, meanwhile, let us have a deeper look at the surface of the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

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Melbourne Cricket Ground BBL 2024-25 Stats And Records

Categories
Data
Matches Played 81
Matches Won Batting First 34
Matches Won Batting Second 47
Average First Innings Score 154
Average Second Innings Score 155


Melbourne Cricket Ground Pitch Report: Is It Batting Or Bowling Friendly?

The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has already hosted four matches in this league, and the pitch seems to be shaping up well for batters. However, pacers are likely to get some assistance with variable bounce and occasional seam movement, making it challenging for batters at times.

Spinners, on the other hand, often struggle to take wickets here. But the larger boundaries can work in their favour, forcing batters to take risks that might result in mistakes. Historically, chasing teams have had the upper hand at the MCG, winning 47 out of 81 matches. Therefore, the team winning the toss will likely choose to bowl first, aiming to take advantage of the conditions and put pressure on the opposition.

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Players To Watch Out For At Melbourne Cricket Ground

Jackson Bird

Australian pacer Jackson Bird is set to deliver a strong performance with his pace bowling. In just three matches, he has already bagged seven wickets, making him a crucial player for his side. With his impressive form, Bird will be one to keep an eye on at the MCG.

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Marcus Stoinis

The in-form all-rounder and Melbourne Stars captain Marcus Stoinis has been phenomenal this season. He has amassed 242 runs in seven innings, making him the tournament’s top run-scorer. Stoinis will look to lead his team from the front and power them to a crucial win at the iconic venue.

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James Vince

England’s James Vince has shown exceptional consistency with the bat, scoring 175 runs in five innings. His unbeaten century against the Melbourne Stars has been a standout performance. With his current form, Vince remains a key asset for his team and a player to watch out for.

Ben Duckett

Representing the Melbourne Stars, Ben Duckett has proven to be a reliable performer. He currently holds the spot as the tournament's second-highest run-scorer with 202 runs. Known for rising to the occasion when his team needs him most, Duckett will be eager to make an impact once again at the MCG.