Related Articles
The Gabba will host Match 25 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024-25, featuring Brisbane Heat taking on the in-form Sydney Thunder. The Heat are fifth in the standings with just two wins from six games, while the Thunder sit comfortably in second place with four wins from five matches. With Brisbane Heat having won the last three encounters against the Thunder, they will look to leverage that edge, but the Thunder’s current form makes them the favorites.
Match Details
| Fixture | Brisbane Heat vs Sydney Thunder |
|---|---|
| Date | Monday, January 8, 2025 |
| Time | 7:10 PM (Local) / 1:40 PM (IST) |
| Venue | Brisbane Cricket Ground (Gabba), Brisbane |
Teams Preview
Brisbane Heat Preview
Brisbane Heat started their campaign on a high note with two wins but have since suffered a steep decline, losing three consecutive matches. A recent washout against Sydney Sixers didn’t help their cause. As they face a formidable Thunder side, the Heat will need their batting and bowling units to fire collectively.
The batting revolves around Nathan McSweeney and Matt Renshaw, who have been the standout performers with the bat. McSweeney has amassed 129 runs across five innings, while Renshaw has contributed 118 runs. Max Bryant, known for his explosive batting, will be pivotal in providing a late surge.
In the bowling department, Xavier Bartlett has been consistent with five wickets in five games at an economy of 8.25. Spencer Johnson adds variety to the attack, and his ability to pick up wickets will be crucial against Thunder’s strong batting lineup.
Key Players: Nathan McSweeney, Max Bryant, Xavier Bartlett
Brisbane Heat Predicted Playing XI:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Colin Munro (c) | Batter |
| Tom Alsop (wk) | Wicketkeeper |
| Nathan McSweeney | Batter |
| Matt Renshaw | Batter |
| Max Bryant | Batter |
| Paul Walter | All-rounder |
| Xavier Bartlett | Bowler |
| Spencer Johnson | Bowler |
| Matthew Kuhnemann | Bowler |
| Mitchell Swepson | Bowler |
| Will Prestwidge | Bowler |
Sydney Thunder Preview
Sydney Thunder has been one of the standout teams of the tournament, with four wins in five games. They enter this clash on the back of three consecutive victories, including a thrilling last-ball win against Perth Scorchers. Despite some injury setbacks, the Thunder possess enough firepower in both batting and bowling departments to maintain their winning streak.
Skipper David Warner is in scintillating form, having scored 178 runs at a strike rate of 148.33. Sam Billings, with 139 runs this season, will need to step up in the absence of key players like Cameron Bancroft and Daniel Sams. The return of Sam Konstas provides some respite to their batting depth.
The Thunder’s bowling attack, led by Chris Green, has been exceptional. Green has claimed 8 wickets in five matches at an economy of 7.85. Wes Agar and Lockie Ferguson bring pace and aggression, and they will look to exploit Brisbane’s vulnerable batting lineup.
Key Players: David Warner, Chris Green, Sam Billings
Sydney Thunder Predicted Playing XI:
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| David Warner (c) | Batter |
| Blake Nikitaras | Batter |
| Sam Billings (wk) | Wicketkeeper |
| Matthew Gilkes | Batter |
| Sherfane Rutherford | All-rounder |
| Chris Green | All-rounder |
| Tom Andrews | All-rounder |
| Wes Agar | Bowler |
| Lockie Ferguson | Bowler |
| Hugh Weibgen | Bowler |
| Dan Christian/Liam Hatcher | All-rounder |
Fantasy Team XI
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Captain | David Warner |
| Vice-Captain | Max Bryant |
| Batsmen | Nathan McSweeney, Matt Renshaw, Blake Nikitaras |
| All-rounders | Chris Green, Tom Andrews, Sherfane Rutherford |
| Wicketkeeper | Sam Billings |
| Bowlers | Xavier Bartlett, Wes Agar, Lockie Ferguson, Spencer Johnson |
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report
The Gabba offers a balanced wicket with even bounce and pace, favoring batters who can play on the up. Fast bowlers also enjoy assistance early on, while spinners might find some turn as the game progresses.
- Average First Innings Score: 166
- Chasing Teams Record: The chasing team has won all three matches at this venue in the current BBL season.
Toss Prediction: Bowl First
Teams batting second have found success at the Gabba, and the trend is expected to continue in this match.
Weather Conditions
The weather in Brisbane is expected to be warm and pleasant, with temperatures hovering around 22°C in the evening. There’s little to no chance of rain, ensuring an uninterrupted game.
Winning Prediction
Brisbane Heat’s inconsistency this season contrasts with Sydney Thunder’s dominance. The Thunder’s depth in both batting and bowling gives them the edge, despite missing a few key players due to injuries. For Brisbane to win, they will need a complete performance, especially from their middle order and bowlers.
Prediction: Sydney Thunder to win!
CricketPandith Match Prediction Package
Per Match Charges: 1000 Rs/Match
Monthly Package: 5000 Rs/Month (Unlimited Match)
All International/League Match Prediction Available
Download Our Cricket Pandith Android App
