Melbourne Stars v Sydney Thunder Big Bash Tips: Chaser Holds Edge in Canberra
Ed Hawkins highlights a key trend at Manuka Oval for Saturday’s Big Bash game and picks out top bats at 35/1 and 90/1.
Key Insights
- Stoinis Could Be in Line to Open
- Thunder Losing Key Men
- Big Prices Down the Order
Melbourne Stars v Sydney Thunder
Saturday 28 December, 08:15
TV: Live on Sky Sports
Team News
Melbourne Stars
The Stars have been boosted by the return of Beau Webster from Australia duty. However, they have an injury concern over Tom Rogers, who hurt his hip in their defeat by the Sixers last time out. If Rogers is unavailable, Marcus Stoinis might take a shot at the opening slot.
Possible Stars XI: Duckett, Stoinis, Harper, Maxwell, Webster, Cartwright, T Curran, Merlo, Usama, Warren, Siddle
Sydney Thunder
The Thunder are facing challenges with the loss of Sam Konstas to Australia duty and Nathan McAndrew to injury. Jason Sangha is likely to replace Konstas, with Cameron Bancroft moving up to open. Liam Hatcher comes in for McAndrew.
Possible Thunder XI: Warner, Bancroft, J Sangha, Rutherford, O Davies, Billings, Sams, Green, Ferguson, Hatcher, T Sangha
Pitch Report
In 26 result matches at night at Manuka Oval, 19 have been won by the chaser—a significant bias. The first innings runs have exceeded 155.5 only 13 times. In the first match at this venue this term, Strikers posted 183/2 against Thunder. This suggests a possible short on 160 or more on innings runs could be cheap.
Match Prediction
The Stars are struggling, with four defeats in four. Their eight-wicket loss to the Sixers, defending 194, was especially disappointing. The Thunder’s win at this ground was lucky, aided by Lloyd Pope’s mistake. Given both teams’ poor form, the toss will likely make all the difference. Backing the chaser at this venue is highly recommended.
Player Bets
Sportsbooks offer Stoinis at 4/1 for top Stars bat, considering his potential to open. However, if this turns out to be a tricky batting wicket, big prices down the order could offer value. Usama Mir for the Stars at 90/1 is a much better bat than his odds suggest. Chris Green for the Thunder at 35/1 is also worth considering.
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