Melbourne Stars will face Sydney Sixers in Match No. 27 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025–26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Thursday, January 8.
The contest is crucial for both sides as the race for the top four intensifies in the middle phase of the tournament.
Match Details
The match will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne.
Start time: 1:45 PM IST, 1:15 PM PST, and 8:15 AM GMT.
STA vs SIX – Match Details (Points)
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Match: Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Sixers, Match 27, BBL 2025–26
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Date: Thursday, January 8
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Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne
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Time: 1:45 PM IST | 1:15 PM PST | 8:15 AM GMT
Team Overview
Melbourne Stars are currently placed third on the points table with four wins from six matches. They have looked well-balanced throughout the season, with both batting and bowling units delivering consistent performances. The Stars also defeated the Sydney Sixers earlier in the tournament and will take confidence from that result as they look to push closer to the top two spots.
Sydney Sixers sit fourth with three wins from six games. Their campaign has been slightly inconsistent, but they remain one of the most experienced and tactically strong sides in the competition. This match is important for the Sixers to maintain their position in the top four and stay in strong contention for the playoffs.
Head-to-Head Record
Melbourne Stars and Sydney Sixers have faced each other 25 times in T20 cricket. Sydney Sixers have dominated the rivalry with 15 wins, while Melbourne Stars have won nine matches. One game ended in a tie. Their most recent meeting took place on December 26, 2025, where the Stars emerged victorious.
Pitch Report – Melbourne Cricket Ground
The MCG surface has generally favoured teams chasing in recent BBL matches. Bowlers, especially those who hit the deck hard, have enjoyed assistance, while batters have had to work for their runs early on. In three matches played at the venue this season, first-innings scores have mostly ranged between 150 and 170. Another competitive, evenly balanced contest is expected.
Probable Playing XIs
Melbourne Stars:
Sam Harper (wk), Thomas Rogers, Campbell Kellaway, Blake Macdonald, Marcus Stoinis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Hilton Cartwright, Tom Curran, Mitchell Swepson, Haris Rauf, Peter Siddle
Sydney Sixers:
Daniel Hughes, Babar Azam, Josh Philippe (wk), Moises Henriques (c), Jordan Silk, Jack Edwards, Joel Davies, Ben Dwarshuis, Sean Abbott, Ben Manenti, Hayden Kerr
Key Players to Watch
Sam Harper has been the standout performer for Melbourne Stars, leading the run charts with 251 runs at an exceptional average. His ability to anchor the innings while scoring quickly makes him a major threat. Peter Siddle has been equally impactful with the ball, using his experience to pick up key wickets alongside Haris Rauf.
For Sydney Sixers, Babar Azam’s presence at the top order adds class and stability, while Sean Abbott and Ben Dwarshuis remain vital with the ball in pressure situations.
Live Streaming and Broadcast
The match will be broadcast live on official television networks in respective regions. Digital live streaming will be available on official apps and websites, including JioHotstar in India, with other authorised platforms covering Australia, Pakistan, and global audiences as per regional broadcasting rights.
Match Scenarios and Prediction
If the pitch behaves as expected, teams may prefer chasing due to evening conditions. A total around 160 could be competitive, but anything below that may not be enough. Considering current form and venue trends, the chasing team holds a slight advantage in this contest.
Prediction: Team batting second is likely to win the match.
