Melbourne Stars are set to face Adelaide Strikers in Match 34 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground on Tuesday, January 13. With the tournament entering a decisive phase, this clash carries significant implications for both sides, albeit for very different reasons.

The Stars have enjoyed a solid campaign so far, registering five victories from their eight outings to occupy third place on the points table. Their consistent performances have kept them firmly in the race for the playoffs, and they will be eager to build further momentum as the league stage nears its conclusion. Adding to their confidence is the fact that they have already beaten the Strikers once earlier this season, a result they will aim to replicate in front of their home crowd to consolidate a top-four finish.

For the Strikers, the scenario is far more challenging. Sitting sixth with just three wins from eight matches, their qualification hopes are hanging by a thread. To remain in contention, the Strikers must not only win their remaining fixtures but also significantly improve their net run rate. Any slip-up could effectively end their campaign, making this encounter a must-win contest for the visitors.

MS vs AS, BBL|15: Match details

• Date and Time: January 13; 1:45 pm IST / 8:15 pm GMT / 7:15 pm Local
• Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne

MS vs AS, Head-to-Head Record in BBL

Matches played: 20 | Melbourne Stars won: 11 | Adelaide Strikers won: 09 | No result/Tied: 0

Melbourne Cricket Ground Pitch Report

The pitch at the MCG has offered a fair contest between bat and ball this season, keeping matches competitive without heavily favouring either side.

The ground’s vast boundaries ensure spinners are never out of the game, as batters are forced to take risks to clear the fence. Early in the innings, fast bowlers are likely to enjoy some assistance, with the pitch providing decent bounce and carry. Recent trends at the MCG also suggest that chasing teams have had a slight edge, as the large outfield allows batters to manage the required rate and build partnerships more patiently.

Squads

Melbourne Stars: Sam Harper (wk), Thomas Fraser Rogers, Campbell Kellaway, Glenn Maxwell, Blake Macdonald, Marcus Stoinis (c), Hilton Cartwright, Mitchell Swepson, Tom Curran, Haris Rauf, Peter Siddle, Joe Clarke, Liam Hatcher, Hamish McKenzie

Adelaide Strikers: Alex Carey, Matthew Short (c), Chris Lynn, Liam Scott, Jamie Overton, Mackenzie Harvey (wk), Harry Manenti, Hasan Ali, Cameron Boyce, Lloyd Pope, Tabraiz Shamsi, Jason Sangha, Henry Thornton

Also READ: BBL|15 – Chris Green sizzles as Sydney Thunder beat Melbourne Renegades in rain-hit clash

MS vs AS, BBL|15: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Melbourne Stars wins the toss and bowls first
• Adelaide Strikers’ powerplay score: 40-50 (6 overs)
• Adelaide Strikers’ total score: 150-160

Case 2:

• Adelaide Strikers wins the toss and bowls first
• Melbourne Stars’ powerplay score: 50-60 (6 overs)
• Melbourne Stars’ total score: 170-180

Match result: Melbourne Stars to win the contest.

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