Matthew Wade played a magnificent knock for Hobart in the last game [X.com]
On Thursday, December 28, Hobart Hurricanes will cross swords against Melbourne Stars in match 17 of the ongoing Big Bash League. The high-voltage face-off is scheduled at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart.
HUR vs STA: Team Previews
Hobart Hurricanes
Led by Nathan Ellis, Hobart Hurricanes have blown hot and cold in the BBL 13, reeling at the sixth position in the points table with one win in three matches. After beginning their campaign with two crushing defeats, the Hurricanes finally got off the mark, defeating Melbourne Renegades in their third group-stage fixture.
The Hurricanes' batting unit has been dependent on their power-packed top-order, as their middle order is yet to fire in the competition. Meanwhile, their bowling unit has lacked penetration, failing to scalp wickets in crucial junctures.
So, moving on to this game, the home side would like to fine-tune the grey areas in their bowling and down-the-order batting.
Melbourne Stars
Hilton Cartwright in action [X.com]
On the other hand, Melbourne Stars have had an even worse campaign than their counterparts, occupying the seventh position with a solitary victory in four outings.
It took them four games to record their first win of the season, as they pipped Sydney Sixers by four wickets. Batting first, the Sixers posted a respectable total of 154 runs, which the Stars chased in the final over, thanks to an unbeaten 47-run knock from Hilton Cartwright.
Despite the win, the Stars can't ignore the loopholes in their batting, as their batters' poor performance led them to embarrassing defeats against the Heat and the Scorchers. So, the onus will be on their two most senior players, Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell, to bring up their A-game in this crucial encounter.
HUR vs STA: Match Details & Live Streaming
| Date & Time | December 28, 1.45 PM IST |
|---|---|
| Venue | Bellerive Oval, Hobart |
| Live Streaming | Star Sports Network, HotStar & FanCode |
HUR vs STA: Hobart Pitch Report
The surface at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart will be batting-friendly, with its pace and bounce aiding in stroke play. The local batters will enjoy their time in the middle, while the seamers might get a hint of extra bounce and seam movement off the pitch. Overall, it will be a good track to bat on and as it won't likely slow down, expect the toss-winner to field first.
HUR vs STA: Probable Playing XIs
Hobart Hurricanes: Matthew Wade (WK), Ben McDermott, Macalister Wright, Sam Hain, Tim David, Corey Anderson, Nikhil Chaudhary, Chris Jordan, Patrick Dooley, Nathan Ellis (C), Riley Meredith
Melbourne Stars: Thomas Rogers, Sam Harper (WK), Beau Webster, Glenn Maxwell (C), Marcus Stoinis, Hilton Cartwright, Imad Wasim, Jonathan Merlo, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Joel Paris
HUR vs STA: Cricket Exchange Fantasy Tips
| Roles | Players |
|---|---|
| Wicket-keeper | Matthew Wade |
| Batters | Mac Wright, Hilton Cartwright |
| All-Rounders | Chris Jordan, Beau Webster, Glenn Maxwell, Imad Wasim |
| Bowlers | Nathan Ellis, Patrick Dooley, Haris Rauf, Usama Mir |
| Captain | Beau Webster/Glenn Maxwell |
| Vice Captain | Matthew Wade |
HUR vs STA: Winner Prediction
Considering the strength of both teams, we reckon Hobart Hurricanes will emerge victorious in this match.
 "Debashis Sarangi")
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