Match 17 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025–26 will see Adelaide Strikers take on Brisbane Heat at the Adelaide Oval on Wednesday, December 31. The contest is important for both sides as Strikers look to break a losing streak, while Heat aim to strengthen their position in the top three.
Match Details (at a glance)
Adelaide Strikers vs Brisbane Heat, Match 17, BBL 2025–26.
Date: Wednesday, December 31.
Match Details (points)
Match: Adelaide Strikers vs Brisbane Heat, Match 17
Venue: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
Time: 1:45 PM IST, 1:15 PM PST, 8:45 AM GMT
Tournament: Big Bash League 2025–26
Team Overview
Adelaide Strikers have had a mixed start to their campaign, winning one of their three matches so far. They currently sit sixth on the points table and are coming into this game after two consecutive defeats. Playing at home, the Strikers will be keen to regain momentum and improve their standings. Skipper Matthew Short has been central to their plans, both with the bat and in leadership, while the bowling attack will look for more consistency.
Brisbane Heat, on the other hand, have shown better form. With two wins from four matches, they occupy third place on the table. The Heat edged past the Strikers in their previous meeting this season and will be confident of repeating that performance. Their balance between experienced international players and young domestic talent has worked well so far.
Key Players to Watch
For Adelaide Strikers, Matthew Short and Chris Lynn remain crucial at the top, while Hasan Ali’s role with the ball could be decisive on a bouncy Adelaide surface. Jamie Overton adds depth as a seam-bowling all-rounder.
Brisbane Heat will once again rely on Matt Renshaw, who has been in outstanding batting form and currently leads the run charts. Jack Wildermuth has been their standout bowler, consistently striking in key moments, while Shaheen Afridi adds pace and aggression to the attack.
Head-to-Head Record
The rivalry has been closely contested over the years. In 22 T20 meetings, Brisbane Heat have won 12 matches, while Adelaide Strikers have claimed 10 victories. The most recent clash on December 27, 2025, saw the Heat secure a narrow win.
Probable Playing XIs
Adelaide Strikers: Matthew Short (c), Chris Lynn, Mackenzie Harvey, Liam Scott, Jamie Overton, Harry Manenti, Harry Nielsen (wk), Jerrssis Wadia, Luke Wood, Hasan Ali, Lloyd Pope.
Brisbane Heat: Colin Munro, Jack Wildermuth, Matt Renshaw, Hugh Weibgen, Tom Alsop, Max Bryant, Jimmy Peirson (wk), Xavier Bartlett (c), Shaheen Afridi, Matthew Kuhnemann, Thomas Balkin.
Pitch Report
The Adelaide Oval traditionally offers a balanced surface. Fast bowlers enjoy bounce and carry, especially early on, while batters can score freely once set due to the quick outfield. Teams that adapt quickly to conditions are usually rewarded.
Live Streaming and Broadcast
In India, the match will be available on JioStar Network channels and JioHotstar (app and website). Australian viewers can watch on Fox Sports and Kayo Sports. In the UK, Sky Sports will provide coverage, while fans in Pakistan can follow the action on official sports channels and authorized streaming platforms offering BBL coverage.
Probable Match Scenarios and Prediction
If the Strikers bat first and post a competitive total, their pace attack could make things difficult for the Heat. Conversely, Brisbane’s strong batting depth makes them dangerous in chases. Considering recent trends and form, the team batting first is likely to have the upper hand.
