• Match: Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Stars, 17th Match, Big Bash League 2023-24
• Date and Time: December 28, 08:15 am GMT/ 01:45 pm IST / 06:15 pm local time
• Venue: Bellerive Oval, Hobart

Hobart Hurricanes: Before Christmas, the Hobart Hurricanes struggled with their form but managed to secure a win against the Melbourne Renegades, crossing the line with six balls and six wickets in hand. Returning to their home ground, they’ll likely feel confident about clinching another victory in succession.

Melbourne Stars: Meanwhile, the Melbourne Stars kickstarted their season with an unexpected win over the formidable Sydney Sixers on Boxing Day. It was a commendable team effort, boosting their confidence as they head to Hobart with the belief that they can defeat any opponent following such a result.

Hobart Hurricanes: Nathan Ellis (Captain), Matthew Wade (Wicket-Keeper), Ben McDermott, Caleb Jewell, Macalister Wright, Sam Hain, Tim David, Corey Anderson, Chris Jordan, Patrick Dooley, Riley Meredith.

Melbourne Stars: Glenn Maxwell (Captain), Thomas Rogers, Sam Harper (Wicket-Keeper), Beau Webster, Marcus Stoinis, Hilton Cartwright, Imad Wasim, Jonathan Merlo, Usama Mir, Joel Paris, Haris Rauf.

The Hurricanes and the Stars, currently positioned at sixth and seventh place, respectively, are both aiming for mid-table standings in this upcoming game. Both teams recognize the importance of stringing together two or three victories to enhance their chances of progressing further. Despite the presence of key players like Haris Rauf and Glenn Maxwell in the Stars’ lineup, the formidable batting lineup of the Hobart Hurricanes stands out to us, leading us to predict that the Hurricanes will emerge victorious in this contest.

Prediction: Hobart Hurricanes to defeat Melbourne Stars.

In the previous match held at this location, the Hobart Hurricanes emerged victorious after opting to field initially. Our anticipation is that in the upcoming game, both teams will likely opt to bowl first if they win the toss.

This pitch appears to favor batting, exhibiting a slightly increased pace compared to past seasons in this year’s BBL. A competitive score is expected to surpass the 190-run mark.

While a significant portion of the earlier heavy cloud cover is expected to dissipate, there will still be intermittent cloudy periods through Thursday evening. Rain is not anticipated, and temperatures are likely to remain in the mid to high teens.

• Stadium: Bellerive Oval
• City: Hobart
• Capacity: 20,000
• Ends: Church Street End, River End
• Hosts to: Tasmania, Hobart Hurricanes