Match 20 of the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 will see Brisbane Heat take on Melbourne Stars at the Gabba, Brisbane, on Friday, January 02. With both teams at different ends of the points table, the contest promises high intensity as the in-form Stars look to extend their unbeaten run while the Heat aim to bounce back strongly at home.
Match Details (at a glance)
Match: Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars, Match 20, BBL 2025-26
Venue: The Gabba, Brisbane
Date: Friday, January 02, 2026
Time: 1:45 pm IST, 1:15 pm PST, 8:45 am GMT
Team Overviews
Brisbane Heat (HEA)
Brisbane Heat have had a mixed campaign so far in the BBL 2025-26 season. With two wins from five matches, the Heat are currently placed fifth on the points table. While they have shown glimpses of strong performances, consistency has been an issue. Coming off a defeat in their previous game, the Heat will be eager to make full use of home conditions at the Gabba and regain momentum as the tournament moves into a crucial phase.
The Heat’s batting has relied heavily on experienced names such as Colin Munro and Matt Renshaw, while the bowling attack, led by captain Xavier Bartlett, has delivered at key moments. However, the middle order will need to step up against a strong Stars bowling lineup if Brisbane want to post or chase a competitive total.
Melbourne Stars (STA)
Melbourne Stars have been the standout team of the tournament so far. Winning all four matches they have played, the Stars sit comfortably at the top of the standings. Their success has been built on balanced team performances, with both batters and bowlers contributing consistently.
Led by Marcus Stoinis, the Stars have played an aggressive yet controlled brand of cricket. The presence of match-winners like Glenn Maxwell, Tom Curran, and Haris Rauf gives the team depth and flexibility. The Stars will be confident heading into this match and will aim to maintain their unbeaten streak.
Head-to-Head Record
Brisbane Heat and Melbourne Stars have faced each other 21 times in T20 cricket.
Brisbane Heat have won 13 matches, while Melbourne Stars have won 8.
There have been no tied or no-result games between the two sides.
The first-ever fixture was played on December 20, 2011, and the most recent meeting took place on January 01, 2025.
Historically, Brisbane Heat have enjoyed more success in this rivalry, particularly in home conditions.
Pitch Report – The Gabba, Brisbane
The Gabba is one of Australia’s most iconic cricket venues and is known for offering something for both batters and bowlers. The surface generally provides good bounce and carry, making stroke play enjoyable once batters are set. Pacers can extract movement early, especially under lights.
The pitch is expected to improve for batting in the second innings, which makes chasing a preferred option for captains winning the toss. A first-innings score of around 180 or more is considered competitive and could prove to be a winning total.
Probable Playing XIs
Brisbane Heat (HEA):
Colin Munro, Jack Wildermuth, Lachlan Hearne, Matt Renshaw, Max Bryant, Hugh Weibgen, Jimmy Peirson (w), Xavier Bartlett (c), Matthew Kuhnemann, Thomas Balkin, Ollie Patterson
Melbourne Stars (STA):
Joe Clarke, Sam Harper (w), Campbell Kellaway, Thomas Fraser Rogers, Marcus Stoinis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Hilton Cartwright, Tom Curran, Mitchell Swepson, Haris Rauf, Peter Siddle
Key Players to Watch
Sam Harper has been outstanding for Melbourne Stars this season. In three matches, he has scored 194 runs at an average of 194.00, making him one of the most dangerous batters in the competition so far. His form at the top of the order could be crucial.
Tom Curran has been the leading wicket-taker of the tournament, picking up nine wickets in four matches. His ability to bowl at any stage of the innings makes him a major threat to the Heat batting lineup.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Details
The match will be broadcast live on JioStar Network channels in India, with live streaming available on the JioHotstar app and website. In Australia, the game will be available on Fox Cricket and Kayo Sports. Viewers in other regions can watch through official Big Bash League broadcast partners and licensed digital platforms.
Probable Match Scenarios and Prediction
If Brisbane Heat bat first, they will look to post a total close to or above 180, relying on early aggression from their top order. Melbourne Stars, on the other hand, will aim to restrict runs with disciplined bowling and chase confidently.
Given the current form and balance of the squads, the team batting first is expected to have a slight advantage. Melbourne Stars start as favorites due to their unbeaten run, but Brisbane Heat’s strong head-to-head record at home makes this an evenly poised contest.
Today’s Match Prediction: Team batting first to win the match.