Get set for a thrilling BBL showdown as the Brisbane Heat take on the Melbourne Stars at the iconic Gabba this Wednesday, 20 December.
The much-anticipated second match of BBL 07 features two powerhouse teams clashing for early dominance. The Brisbane Heat will battle it out on their home turf against a stellar Melbourne Stars lineup.
Who will dominate the pitch—will Brisbane’s aggressive top order blaze through or will Melbourne’s star-studded squad take control? Let’s dive in:
Heat vs Stars | Wednesday 20 December | The Gabba, Brisbane | 10:40
Match Winner Odds
Heat 96/100 | Tie 35/1 | Stars 86/100
Get in on the action and share the excitement with fellow fans!
Brisbane Heat Insights
The big talking point is the return of Chris Lynn. This Aussie opener is a fan favourite and a proven match-winner, boasting 309 runs last season at an incredible strike rate of 177.58 despite playing only five games.
However, Lynn hasn’t played competitively since late May, so whether he hits the ground running is a key question. Joining him at the top will be Brendon McCullum, fresh from clinching the BPL title with Rangpur Riders.
Exciting newcomer Shadab Khan, the young Pakistani leg-spinner known for his sharp turn, could be a crucial weapon, especially on the dry pitches expected during the tournament. Another Pakistani wrist-spinner, Yasir Shah, might also feature if the Heat opt for a spin-heavy strategy.
The quick bowling department is led by experienced campaigners Ben Cutting, Mark Steketee and Mitch Swepson, though their challenge will be significant against Melbourne’s strong batting lineup.
Melbourne Stars Overview
The Stars have a unique BBL record – consistently making the semi-finals but only reaching the final once, leaving their title ambitions unfulfilled so far.
This season, they’re looking sharp with the inclusion of last year’s top scorer Ben Dunk, adding firepower to an already star-studded batting line-up including Luke Wright, Kevin Pietersen, Rob Quiney, Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis. These batsmen can quickly change the game’s momentum.
Bowling-wise, the Stars boast arguably the competition’s most formidable attack: pace spearheaded by James Faulkner, John Hastings, and Scott Boland, complemented by Adam Zampa’s crafty wrist-spin and Michael Beer’s tricky left-arm orthodox deliveries.
Expert Verdict: Brisbane Heat 96/100
This match is a nail-biter! Yet, the Heat’s dynamic top order combined with their spin options just tip the scales in their favour, especially on home ground at the Gabba. Expect a thrilling encounter!
