BBL Match Prediction | Big Bash League 2024-25 | Sydney Thunder vs Melbourne Stars | Knockout | Jan 22 – Let’s see who keeps their final hope alive.

ST vs MS Match Analysis

Sydney Thunder and Melbourne Stars will play each other in the Big Bash League 2024-25 Knockout Match on January 22, 2025, at 2:30 PM BST at Sydney Showground Stadium, Sydney.

The Melbourne Stars have clinched their first BBL finals spot since the 2019-20 season, overcoming a challenging 0-5 start with an impressive streak of five consecutive wins. They are now gearing up to face third-placed Sydney Thunder in the knockout final. Notably, the Stars’ most recent loss was against the Thunder on December 28. However, under the inspiring leadership of their dynamic captain, Glenn Maxwell, the Stars have been on an unstoppable run ever since.

On the other hand, the Sydney Thunder have displayed inconsistency in their performances. Considering their current form, the Stars are expected to be the favorites heading into this knockout clash.

ST vs MS Team Preview & Squads

Sydney Thunder

The Sydney Thunder secured their spot in the BBL|14 finals with an impressive win over the Scorchers at home last week. This marks a remarkable improvement from their previous season, where they finished last with just one victory. However, the rain-affected Sydney Smash at the SCG on Friday dashed their hopes of competing for a top-two finish and the advantage of a double chance in the playoffs.

Despite dealing with injuries throughout the season, with up to six players from their original 18-man roster missing games, the Thunder managed to stay near the top of the standings. David Warner has been a key contributor, consistently providing strong starts and amassing 346 runs in 9 innings.

Sam Billings has also been in excellent touch, scoring 185 runs in 8 innings at a strike rate of 136, making him another player to watch. In the bowling department of ST, Chris Green has led the charge with 11 wickets in 8 innings, maintaining a commendable economy rate of 7.32. Wes Agar and Nathan McAndrew have also played pivotal roles, combining for 15 wickets. Tanveer Sangha adds depth to their bowling attack, making it both versatile and formidable.

Sydney Thunder Squads

Sydney Thunder

David Warner, William Salzmann, Nic Maddinson, Sam Billings, Chris Green, Ryan Hadley, Jason Sangha, Tanveer Sangha, Matthew Gilkes, Cameron Bancroft, Sam Konstas, Liam Hatcher, Daniel Sams, Lockie Ferguson, Oliver Davies, Wes Agar, Sherfane Rutherford, and Nathan McAndrew.

Melbourne Stars

Melbourne Stars have staged a remarkable comeback this season, recovering from five consecutive losses to win their last five matches and secure an unexpected spot in the BBL finals. To seal their place, they had to overcome top-ranked Hobart in the final regular-season game. Batting first at the MCG, the Stars posted an impressive 5-219, which set up a commanding 40-run victory over the Hurricanes.

Glenn Maxwell has been instrumental in the Stars’ resurgence, delivering another outstanding performance in the last game with a blistering unbeaten 76 off just 32 balls, including six sixes. With 297 runs in eight matches at a strike rate of 194.11, Maxwell has been the standout player of their campaign.

Captain Marcus Stoinis has also played a key role in their revival, amassing 296 runs in 10 innings at a strike rate of 130.97. On the bowling front of MS, Mark Steketee has been a reliable performer, taking 15 wickets with an economy rate of 6.97. Veteran bowler Peter Siddle, at 40 years old, has made a significant impact with 11 wickets this season. Supporting them, Usama Mir, Joel Paris, and Tom Curran form a formidable bowling lineup capable of posing a serious challenge to any opposition.

Melbourne Stars Squads

Melbourne Stars

Brody Couch, Ben Duckett, Jonathan Merlo, Mark Steketee, Glenn Maxwell, Hilton Cartwright, Scott Boland, Sam Harper, Thomas Rogers, Joel Paris, Peter Siddle, Tom Curran, Adam Milne, Campbell Kellaway, Usama Mir, Joe Clarke, Marcus Stoinis, and Hamish McKenzie. 

Sydney Thunder vs Melbourne Stars outfield report 

Sydney Showground Stadium

To obtain an advantage in this knockout game, we believe that both teams will want to bat first and score a large total. The seam bowlers may benefit from additional swing off the air because Sydney’s afternoons will be hot and dry.

It is anticipated that the Sydney Showground surface would have considerable early seam movement and strong bounce, making it difficult for batsmen to score runs in the first overs. The green surface can be used by fast bowlers to create pressure and induce swing.    

ST vs MS Head-to-Head Stats of Last 5 Matches

In their last five matches, MS won 1 game and ST won 4.

Sydney Thunder vs Melbourne Stars Prediction

Cricket analysts predict the Sydney Thunder have a 52% chance of winning.

Disclaimer: This cricket prediction is based on the author’s insights and analysis. Readers should consider the points discussed and draw their own conclusions.