The 14th match of the Big Bash League 2025–26 will feature Melbourne Stars taking on Sydney Thunder at the Manuka Oval in Canberra, as the league phase gathers momentum. Melbourne Stars arrive with an unbeaten record, while Sydney Thunder look to build on their first victory of the season.
The encounter will be played on December 27, 2025, and is expected to be a competitive contest between form and history.
Match Details
Match: Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Thunder, Match 14, BBL 2025–26
Venue: Manuka Oval, Canberra
Date: December 27, 2025
Time: 1:45 PM IST, 1:15 PM PST, 8:15 AM GMT
Team Overview: Melbourne Stars
Melbourne Stars have enjoyed a dream start to their Big Bash League 2025–26 campaign, winning all three of their opening matches and sitting at the top of the points table. Their success has been driven by consistency in selection, as they have fielded the same playing XI in every game so far. This stability has allowed the team to function as a well-balanced unit.
The Stars’ batting has been anchored by Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell, who bring both experience and explosive power to the middle order. Their bowling attack, led by Haris Rauf and supported by Peter Siddle and Mitchell Swepson, has been disciplined and effective in crucial phases.
Team Overview: Sydney Thunder
Sydney Thunder finally found momentum in their previous match with a convincing 34-run win over Brisbane Heat. That result will have lifted confidence in the camp after a slow start to the season. Despite their overall struggles so far, Thunder have historically performed well against the Stars and will take motivation from that record.
David Warner’s leadership at the top of the order remains central to Thunder’s plans, while the all-round contributions of Daniel Sams and Shadab Khan add balance to the side. Their bowling unit showed improved control in the last outing, something they will need to replicate against a strong Stars lineup.
Key Players to Watch
For Melbourne Stars, Marcus Stoinis will be vital with both bat and leadership, while Glenn Maxwell’s ability to change games quickly makes him a major threat. Haris Rauf’s pace in the death overs could also prove decisive.
For Sydney Thunder, David Warner’s start at the top could dictate the tone of the innings. Shadab Khan’s role as a spin all-rounder and Daniel Sams’ impact with the new ball and at the death will be crucial.
Head-to-Head Record
Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thunder have faced each other 22 times in Big Bash history. Sydney Thunder have won 12 matches, while Melbourne Stars have claimed 10 victories. Notably, Thunder have won the last five meetings between the two sides, giving them a psychological edge despite Stars’ current form.
Probable Playing XI
Sydney Thunder: Matthew Gilkes, Sam Konstas, David Warner (captain), Cameron Bancroft, Sam Billings (wicketkeeper), Shadab Khan, Daniel Sams, Chris Green, Nathan McAndrew, Tanveer Sangha, Reece Topley.
Melbourne Stars: Sam Harper (wicketkeeper), Joe Clarke, Campbell Kellaway, Marcus Stoinis (captain), Glenn Maxwell, Hilton Cartwright, Tom Curran, Haris Rauf, Thomas Rogers, Mitchell Swepson, Peter Siddle.
Pitch Report: Manuka Oval, Canberra
The Manuka Oval traditionally offers a batting-friendly surface with true bounce and relatively short boundaries. Average first-innings scores usually fall between 160 and 170. Fast bowlers can find some movement early, but once batters are set, scoring becomes easier. Spinners often play an important role during the middle overs by controlling the run rate.
Weather Conditions
Conditions in Canberra are expected to be clear and sunny, with no rain forecast. Temperatures are likely to remain pleasant throughout the match, ensuring uninterrupted play and ideal conditions for both players and spectators.
Probable Match Scenarios
If Melbourne Stars bat first and post a total above the average range, they will place significant pressure on Sydney Thunder. However, early wickets for Thunder could shift momentum and allow their spinners to control the middle overs. Chasing teams often enjoy success at this venue, making the toss an important factor.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Details
The match will be broadcast live on Star Sports television channels in South Asia. Online streaming will be available through official digital platforms and mobile applications in different regions, including dedicated sports streaming services in Australia and international markets.
Match Prediction
Based on current form, squad balance, and consistency, Melbourne Stars enter this contest as favorites. While Sydney Thunder’s strong head-to-head record cannot be ignored, Stars’ unbeaten run and settled combination give them a clear edge. Melbourne Stars are expected to secure their fourth consecutive win of the season.
