The 23rd match of the Big Bash League 2024-25 will feature the Melbourne Stars taking on their city rivals Melbourne Renegades at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Saturday, January 4th, at 7:30 PM IST.
The Stars will enter the game brimming with confidence after a resounding win against Brisbane Heat. Meanwhile, the Renegades will look to bounce back following two consecutive losses, including their most recent defeat to Adelaide Strikers.
A win for either side in this Melbourne Derby could drastically alter the shape of the points table, making this a high-stakes encounter.
Match Details
Fixture | Melbourne Stars vs Melbourne Renegades |
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Date | January 4, 2025 |
Time | 7:30 PM IST |
Venue | Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne |
Teams Preview
Melbourne Stars Preview
The Stars finally got their campaign rolling with a commanding victory over Brisbane Heat. After a wobbly start at 14/3, the experienced duo of Dan Lawrence (64)* and Marcus Stoinis (62) carried the team home with 11 balls to spare. Their partnership will provide a morale boost for the batting lineup, which also includes match-winners like Glenn Maxwell, Ben Duckett, and Sam Harper.
In the bowling department, Joel Paris led from the front with an economical spell, while Mark Steketee provided crucial breakthroughs. With a balanced attack and an improving form graph, the Stars look like a rejuvenated unit capable of taking on their city rivals.
Key Players: Dan Lawrence, Marcus Stoinis, Joel Paris
Melbourne Stars Predicted Playing XI:
Player | Role |
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Ben Duckett | Batter |
Thomas Rogers | Batter |
Sam Harper (wk) | Wicketkeeper |
Dan Lawrence | Batter |
Marcus Stoinis (c) | All-rounder |
Glenn Maxwell | All-rounder |
Hilton Cartwright | All-rounder |
Usama Mir | Bowler |
Mark Steketee | Bowler |
Joel Paris | Bowler |
Peter Siddle | Bowler |
Melbourne Renegades Preview
The Renegades have hit a rough patch, losing two games on the trot. Their last game against the Strikers showcased flashes of brilliance, especially with Josh Brown’s 66 off 41 at the top of the order. However, a lack of consistent contributions from the middle order remains a concern.
Jacob Bethell’s left-arm spin could be a trump card on the MCG track, while Tom Rogers and Adam Zampa will lead the charge in the pace and spin departments, respectively. If the Renegades’ batters can provide a solid foundation, their bowling unit is equipped to handle the pressure.
Key Players: Josh Brown, Jacob Bethell, Adam Zampa
Melbourne Renegades Predicted Playing XI:
Player | Role |
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Josh Brown | Batter |
Jake Fraser-McGurk | Batter |
Tim Seifert (wk) | Wicketkeeper |
Jacob Bethell | All-rounder |
Mackenzie Harvey | Batter |
Laurie Evans | Batter |
Will Sutherland (c) | All-rounder |
Fergus O’Neill | Bowler |
Tom Rogers | Bowler |
Adam Zampa | Bowler |
Kane Richardson | Bowler |
Fantasy Team XI
Position | Player |
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Captain | Marcus Stoinis |
Vice-Captain | Josh Brown |
Batsmen | Dan Lawrence, Marcus Stoinis, Josh Brown |
All-rounders | Glenn Maxwell, Jacob Bethell, Hilton Cartwright |
Wicketkeeper | Sam Harper |
Bowlers | Joel Paris, Adam Zampa, Mark Steketee, Tom Rogers |
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Pitch Report
The MCG pitch typically offers a balanced surface, with something in it for both batters and bowlers. Batters will enjoy playing their strokes once settled, while bowlers—especially spinners—can extract some assistance as the game progresses. A par score is expected to be around 180.
Toss: To Bowl
The chasing team has had better success in recent games at the MCG, so both captains are likely to opt for bowling first if they win the toss.
Weather Report
Saturday evening in Melbourne will be warm and clear, with temperatures expected to hover around 30°C. There are no chances of rain, ensuring a full game under the lights.
Winning Prediction
Momentum often plays a crucial role in T20 cricket, and the Stars appear to have the edge with their confidence-boosting win against Brisbane Heat. The Renegades will need significant improvements in their batting consistency to match the Stars’ firepower.
Prediction: Melbourne Stars to win the Melbourne Derby!
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