STA vs HUR Match Prediction: Who Will Win Today's BBL 14 Match 40 Between Stars vs Hurricanes?
STA vs HUR Match Prediction [Source: @StarsBBL, @HurricanesBBL/x.com]
It’s do-or-die time for Melbourne Stars as they lock horns with the table-topping Hobart Hurricanes in the final league match of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25 on Sunday, January 19 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. With Hobart already through to the Qualifier, Melbourne has everything to play for, as their playoff hopes hinge on this match.
Melbourne Stars
Melbourne Stars haven’t had the smoothest ride this season. Sitting with four wins from nine games, they need a win here to keep their tournament alive. Their last outing, however, was a much-needed morale booster as they defeated their city rivals, Melbourne Renegades, by 42 runs.
Glenn Maxwell, the man for the big moments, was absolutely sensational with the bat, smashing a blistering 90 off 52 balls to take the Stars to a competitive total of 165. With the ball, it was the Mark Steketee show, as the pacer ripped through the Renegades' lineup with a stunning five-wicket haul, bowling them out for 123. The Stars will need another all-round effort to topple the Hurricanes and keep their campaign alive.
Hobart Hurricanes
Hobart Hurricanes have been the team to beat this season. With seven wins from nine matches, they’ve locked in their spot at the top of the table and are cruising into the Qualifier. But make no mistake—they’ll want to carry their winning momentum into the playoffs.
In their last match, the Hurricanes pulled off a thrilling chase against the Brisbane Heat, winning on the final ball. Chasing a mammoth target of 202, it was Caleb Jewell’s classy 76 and Mitchell Owen’s quickfire 44 off 20 that laid the foundation. Matthew Wade sealed the win with a six off the final delivery. Earlier, Nathan Ellis was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets to keep Brisbane in check. Expect Hobart to keep their foot on the gas as they look to finish the league stage on a winning note.
STA vs HUR: Head-To-Head Record
Categories | Melbourne Stars | Hobart Hurricanes |
---|---|---|
Matches Played | 21 | 21 |
Matches Won | 13 | 8 |
Matches Lost | 8 | 13 |
No Result | 0 | 0 |
How Will The Melbourne Cricket Ground Pitch Behave?
The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has provided balanced conditions throughout the season and has kept both batters and bowlers interested. With an average scoring rate of 8.14 runs per over, the pitch offers something for everyone. Pacers will enjoy a bit of seam movement and spongy bounce, especially if they hit the hard lengths. Batters, on the other hand, can use the pace of the surface to their advantage and score freely once they get their eye in. Spinners, however, might find it hard to make an impact here as there won't be any significant turn. Chasing teams have had the upper hand at the MCG this season, making the toss a crucial factor. The captain winning the toss will bowl in all likelihood, unless the pitch looks dry.
Players To Watch Out For In STA vs HUR
Melbourne Stars
Marcus Stoinis
Marcus Stoinis has been a consisent performer for the Melbourne Stars this season. In the last 10 matches, he has scored 312 runs at an average of 31.2 and a strike rate of 130.54. His ability to play aggressive strokes and finish games makes him a key batter for his team.
Glenn Maxwell
Glenn Maxwell has been in scintillating form for the Melbourne Stars. He has smashed 253 runs in the last 8 matches at a brilliant average of 42.17 and an explosive strike rate of 182.01. Maxwell's dynamic batting and match-winning capabilities will be critical for his team's success.
Mark Steketee
Mark Steketee has been in sensational form with the ball for the Melbourne Stars. In just 4 matches, he has snagged 11 wickets at an economy rate of 7 and a stunning strike rate of 8.18. His ability to take early wickets and maintain control makes him a significant threat.
Peter Siddle
Peter Siddle has delivered crucial breakthroughs for the Melbourne Stars. In the last 8 matches, he has taken 11 wickets at an economy of 7.06 and a strike rate of 16.45. His experience and consistency make him a key bowler for his team.
Hobart Hurricanes
Mitchell Owen
Mitchell Owen has been a standout for the Hobart Hurricanes. He has amassed 271 runs in the last 9 matches at an average of 33.88 and a blistering strike rate of 180.66. His ability to accelerate the scoring in the middle order makes him a crucial player for the Hurricanes.
Tim David
Tim David has been a reliable finisher for the Hobart Hurricanes. In the last 10 matches, he has notched 240 runs at an average of 40 and an exceptional strike rate of 181.81. His powerful hitting in the death overs adds immense value to his team.
Riley Meredith
Riley Meredith has been effective for the Hobart Hurricanes. He has bagged 12 wickets in 10 matches at an economy of 9.05 and a strike rate of 18.5. His ability to bowl with pace and strike at critical moments is vital for his team's chances.
Nathan Ellis
Nathan Ellis has been reliable for the Hobart Hurricanes. In 9 matches, he has claimed 10 wickets at an economy of 8.15 and a strike rate of 20.4. His skill in delivering under pressure makes him a valuable asset in tight games.
Today's Match Prediction: STA vs HUR
Predicted Top Performers
Melbourne Stars – Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Mark Steketee
Hobart Hurricanes – Mitchell Owen, Tim David, Nathan Ellis
STA vs HUR: Predicted Score
Predicted first innings score: 160-180
Predicted second innings score: 165-185
Predicted Result: The team bowling first will likely have an advantage in this match.