The Gabba Brisbane Pitch Report For HEA vs STA BBL 2024-25 Match 19

Debashis Sarangi∙ Updated: Dec 31 2024, 5:00 PM

The Gabba Brisbane [Source: @debasissen/X]The Gabba Brisbane [Source: @debasissen/X]

Brisbane Heat will lock horns with Melbourne Stars in the 19th group-stage match of the ongoing Big Bash League season. The high-octane clash will be played at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane. 

Led by Colin Munro, Brisbane Heat have had a roller-coaster ride in the BBL 2024-25, claiming the fifth position with two wins in four matches. Although they won their first two games, consecutive defeats against the Scorchers and the Sixers affected their journey in the tournament. 

On the other hand, Melbourne Stars have had a horrendous BBL 14 campaign, incurring five straight defeats. Their chance of qualifying for the next round seems bleak, and they would be desperate for a turnaround in this game. 

The Gabba Brisbane BBL Stats And Records

Criterion
Data
Matches played67
Matches won batting 1st32
Matches won bowling 1st34
Average 1st innings score163.16
Average 2nd innings score148.94


The Gabba Brisbane Pitch Report: Is It Batting Or Bowling Friendly?

The surface at the Gabba in Brisbane might offer some seam movement to the new ball bowlers across both innings. There could also be a hint of extra bounce, which the hit-the-deck pacers will exploit in the middle overs. 

Having said that, the surface will be decent for batting, as the batters can play their shots after getting set in the middle. In the last six completed matches, teams setting the target have won on five occasions. However, as the track doesn't slow down with time, the toss-winner might be tempted to bowl first. 

Players To Watch Out For At The Gabba In Brisbane

Ben Duckett

  • Melbourne Stars' explosive opener Ben Duckett is in sublime form, having amassed 135 runs at a blistering strike rate of 170.88. If he sees through the new ball spell, Duckett can be a headache for the Heat in this game. 

Xavier Bartlett

  • Brisbane Heat's renowned pacer Xavier Bartlett has scalped five wickets in four BBL games this season. If he gets some movement off the deck, Bartlett might expose the Stars top order. 

Marcus Stoinis

  • Melbourne Stars' captain Marcus Stoinis could be a game-changer for his team, courtesy of his incredible all-round prowess. Stoinis bats at the top order and can dominate the Heat with his stroke play.