In this article, we will be analyzing the STR vs STA Match Prediction of Match 20 for the BBL 2023-2024. Adelaide Strikers are set to lock horns with Melbourne Stars in a crucial encounter in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) 2023-2024 on Sunday, December 31, at the Adelaide Oval.
Matthew Short-led Strikers are coming into this game after a couple of losses. Their opening fixture against Brisbane Heat was abandoned due to rain before they picked up a six-wicket win against Sydney Thunder. Notably., after having accumulated three points from four games, Adelaide find themselves just outside the top four on the points table.
Meanwhile, the Melbourne Stars have already played five matches. They had a forgettable start to the campaign, losing three matches on the trot. However, Glenn Maxwell and Co. have made a strong comeback in the tournament, winning back-to-back games against Sydney Sixers and Hobart Hurricanes.
STR vs THU Match Details
Match | Venue | Date & Time | Live Broadcast and Streaming Details |
Adelaide Strikers vs Melbourne Stars, Big Bash League 2023-24 | Adelaide Oval, Adelaide | Sunday, December 31, 01:45 PM (IST) | Star Sports Network and Disney+Hotstar |
Adelaide Oval Pitch Report and Conditions
The Adelaide Oval generally produces some of the best batting wickets in Australia. The first game at the iconic venue in this year’s BBL was washed out. However, the second game wasn’t hit by inclement weather, as fans witnessed a high-scoring thriller. Thunder batted first and scored 200/7 in their 20 overs. In reply, the Strikers successfully chased the total, on the back of fifties from D’Arcy Short and Matthew Short, with six wickets and two balls to spare. The weather forecast for Sunday is quite promising; another run-fest could be on the cards.
STR vs STA Head-to-Head Record:
Matches Played | Adelaide Strikers Won | Melbourne Stars Won |
17 | 08 | 09 |
STR vs STA Predicted Playing XI:
Adelaide Strikers (STR)
Matt Short (C), D’Arcy Short, Chris Lynn, Jake Weatherald, Adam Hose, Jamie Overton, James Bazley, Harry Nielsen (WK), Cameron Boyce, Wes Agar, David Payne
Melbourne Stars (STA)
Sam Harper (WK), Glenn Maxwell (C), Marcus Stoinis, Hilton Cartwright, Thomas Rogers, Beay Webster, Imad Wasim, Jonathan Merlo, Usama Mir, Haris Rauf, Joel Paris
Probable Best Performers from STR vs STA
Probable Best Batter: Glenn Maxwell
The flamboyant batter came into the tournament on the back of a scintillating form. He has got starts so far in the eight-team tournament but a big score is yet to come from his bat. In the last game against Hurricanes, Maxwell’s unbeaten 18-ball 35 helped the Stars win a rain-curtailed encounter. The way Glenn Maxwell has been playing at the moment, a big score seems to be around the corner.
Probable Best Bowler: Haris Rauf
The Pakistani pacer has picked up six wickets in four matches so far, at an average of 16 and a strike rate of 12. His economy rate of 8 is also quite acceptable considering the fact that he bowls at the death. Rauf is a genuine wicket taker and Maxwell will be banking on him to foil the opposition batters’ plans.
Today’s Match Prediction: Melbourne Stars to win the match
Disclaimer: The prediction is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While making your prediction, consider the points mentioned, and make your own decision.