HEA vs HUR Dream11 Prediction [Source: @Oam_16/x.com]
It’s all set to go down at The Gabba as Brisbane Heat face table-toppers Hobart Hurricanes in Match 36 of the Big Bash League 2024-25 on Thursday, January 16. Both teams are coming off contrasting results, making this clash all the more intriguing.
Brisbane Heat
Brisbane Heat’s campaign has been mixed with three wins, four losses, and a no-result in eight games. Their last match against Adelaide Strikers was one to forget, as their bowlers were torn apart, conceding a massive 251/5. Michael Nesser, Xavier Bartlett, and Spencer Johnson had an abysmal day as they went wicketless and got thrashed all over the park. The spin duo of Matthew Kuhnemann and Mitchell Swepson managed five wickets between them, but at a steep cost.
The batting wasn’t much better. While Jack Wood, Nathan McSweeney, and Matt Renshaw chipped in with runs, none could anchor the innings or make a meaningful impact. Brisbane folded for 195, falling well short of the target. They’ll need their key players to step up and deliver to get back to winning ways.
Hobart Hurricanes
Hobart Hurricanes are riding the wave this season, sitting pretty at the top with six wins and just one loss. Their last clash saw them chase down a modest 155-run target against Melbourne Renegades with ease. Riley Meredith was the standout bowler, grabbing three wickets and setting the tone early. Skipper Nathan Ellis and Mitchell Owen chipped in with key breakthroughs, keeping Renegades in check.
With the bat, it was a collective effort. Nikhil Chaudhary and Matthew Wade top-scored with 36 apiece while Owen and Tim David added crucial runs to seal the win. The Hurricanes are oozing confidence and will aim to maintain their position at the pinnacle of the BBL points table.
The Gabba - Pitch Report For Match 36 Of BBL 2024-25
The Gabba has always been a pacer’s surface, and this season is no different. Expect early seam movement and extra bounce, which will keep the bowlers interested, especially in the powerplay and middle overs. However, batters who get their eye in can make merry, as the pitch becomes friendlier as the game progresses. Interestingly, all matches at The Gabba this season have been won by teams chasing, so the toss could be crucial. Captains winning the toss are likely to bowl first and exploit the conditions.
Top 3 Captain and Vice-Captain Choices For HEA vs HUR
1. Mitchell Owen
Mitchell Owen has been a revelation for Hobart Hurricanes at the top of the order. The opener has smashed 226 runs in seven matches at a fiery strike rate of 176.56. His unbeaten 101* earlier in the season showed his ability to dominate bowlers and steer his team to victory. Owen’s aggressive intent in the powerplay makes him a nightmare for opposition bowlers, and his consistency adds to his value as a captaincy or vice-captaincy pick.
2. Max Bryant
Max Bryant has been the shining light for Brisbane Heat in what’s been an up-and-down campaign. With 243 runs in seven games at an average of 48.60 and a strike rate of 168.75, Bryant has been their go-to man for runs. His ability to take the attack to the bowlers right from the get-go has been a major plus for Brisbane. If Bryant gets going, he can single-handedly change the course of the match, making him a top captain or vice-captaincy choice.
3. Riley Meredith
Riley Meredith has been Hobart Hurricanes’ spearhead with the ball this season. The lanky speedster has snagged 11 wickets in seven matches at an impressive strike rate of 14.18. His ability to deliver in the death overs along with his knack for early breakthroughs, makes him an apt choice for captain or vice-captain. Meredith’s spell in the last match was a reminder of how lethal he can be, especially on a surface like The Gabba that offers bounce and movement.