Matt Short and Jamie Overton are hot picks as captains and vice-captains for Dream 11 fantasy teams [Source: @BBL/X.com, @bethiveonline/X.com]
Brisbane Heat (HEA) will face Adelaide Strikers (STR) in match number nine of the Big Bash League 2024-25 season at the Gabba, Brisbane on Sunday, December 22. The clash is set to commence from 1:45 PM IST onwards.
Brisbane Heat has swept off Melbourne Stars confidently in their opening match of BBL 14. Besides, winning by 8 wickets, Heat has also bagged a massive net run rate boost and currently sits at the second position on the table. Meanwhile, Adelaide Strikers lost their first game against Sydney Thunder by a close margin but bagged their win in the second clash against Melbourne Stars by 15 runs. Having won one game, the Strikers now sit in the fifth position on the points table.
Gabba, Brisbane - Pitch Report For Match 9 Of BBL 2024-25
The Gabba pitch is expected to offer a balanced contest between bat and ball. While new-ball bowlers might find some early assistance, the pitch's true pace and bounce should favour batters as the game progresses. Recent BBL results at the Gabba suggest a potential advantage for the team batting first. Therefore, the captain who wins the toss may be inclined to choose to bat.
Top 3 Captain and Vice-Captain Choices For HEA vs STR
3) Xavier Bartlett
Why Xavier Bartlett Will Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?
Best Pace Option At Gabba: The Gabba is renowned for its bouncy and pace-friendly surface, which suits fast bowlers who can extract extra lift and movement off the deck. Xavier Bartlett, known for his ability to generate sharp bounce, is likely to thrive in these conditions. His proficiency in bowling with the new ball makes him a crucial asset in the powerplay, where early breakthroughs can set the tone for the match.
Smoking Hot Form: Following his performance in the Sheffield Shield, where he took 5 wickets for Queensland in his last match, he had another strong showing against the Melbourne Stars in BBL, finishing with figures of 3 wickets for 25 runs. Hence, he is also expected to maintain this proficiency for the next match.
2) Jamie Overton
Why Jamie Overton Will Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?
Good Death Over Option: Jamie Overton’s pace, and height, along with Gabba's pitch is ideal for Overton’s bowling style, allowing him to extract steep bounce and seam movement to trouble batters. His ability to bowl accurate yorkers and deceptive slower balls makes him a reliable option during the death overs, especially on the Gabba’s large outfield.
Offers Lower-Order Strength: As a lower-order hitter, Overton adds depth to the batting lineup with his power-hitting skills. The all-rounder thrashed 45 off 35 balls against the Sydney Thunder in his first encounter in BBL. His inning added up to the Strikers' total but was not helpful as they lost that match to Thunder.
1) Matthew Short
Why Matthew Short Will Be A Good Choice As The Captain Or Vice-captain?
Top Order Exploder: Matthew Short’s aggressive batting style makes him a perfect fit for T20 cricket, especially on hard and true pitches like those in the BBL. His ability to score quickly in the powerplay provides a strong platform for his team, and his consistency in clearing the infield makes him a dangerous opening option. Notably, he boasts a strike rate of 140.92 in his BBL career.
All-Round Versatility: As a handy off-spinner, Short adds depth to the bowling unit, offering control in the middle overs and the ability to pick up crucial wickets. His dual skill set as an all-rounder strengthens team balance, allowing for flexibility in the playing XI. In fact, he scalped 2 wickets of the Stars in his last BBL encounter which cements his position as a strong bowling option.