Match No. 5 of Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 will see Melbourne Stars take on Hobart Hurricanes at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Thursday, December 18.
The defending champions Hurricanes arrive with winning momentum, while the Stars begin their campaign at home with a power-packed squad led by Marcus Stoinis.
Match Details
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Match: Melbourne Stars vs Hobart Hurricanes, Match 5, BBL 2025-26
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Date & Time: Thursday, December 18, 2025 – 1:45 PM (IST)
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Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne
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Tournament: Big Bash League 2025-26
Team Overview
Melbourne Stars
The Melbourne Stars finished fourth in the previous season and will be eager to start the new campaign on a positive note at their home venue. Led by Marcus Stoinis, the Stars have assembled a well-balanced squad featuring explosive batters, quality all-rounders, and an experienced bowling unit. The presence of Glenn Maxwell gives them an X-factor in the middle overs, while overseas pacer Haris Rauf adds serious firepower with the ball. The Stars’ batting depth allows them to play aggressively without fear of collapse, which could be crucial at the expansive MCG.
Hobart Hurricanes
Hobart Hurricanes come into this contest as defending champions and have already opened their campaign with a thrilling four-wicket win over the Sydney Thunder. Their last-over chase showcased composure and depth, with Chris Jordan delivering a match-winning all-round performance to claim the Player of the Match award. Under the leadership of Nathan Ellis, the Hurricanes look settled and confident. Their squad blends youth and experience, with power hitters like Tim David and Ben McDermott complemented by a disciplined bowling attack.
Head-to-Head Record (T20s)
The rivalry has historically favoured the Melbourne Stars, who hold a clear edge over the Hurricanes.
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Matches Played: 22
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Melbourne Stars Wins: 14
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Hobart Hurricanes Wins: 8
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First Meeting: January 9, 2012
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Most Recent Meeting: January 19, 2025
Despite the Stars’ superior record, Hurricanes’ recent form as champions adds intrigue to this matchup.
Probable Playing XIs
Melbourne Stars (Captain: Marcus Stoinis)
Joe Clarke, Sam Harper (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis (c), Hilton Cartwright, Tom Curran, Campbell Kellaway, Haris Rauf, Peter Siddle, Mitch Swepson, Tom Rogers
Hobart Hurricanes (Captain: Nathan Ellis)
Mitchell Owen, Nikhil Chaudhary, Rehan Ahmed, Ben McDermott, Tim David, Matthew Wade (wk), Chris Jordan, Nathan Ellis (c), Rishad Hossain, Riley Meredith, Billy Stanlake
Key Players to Watch
For the Hurricanes, Mitchell Owen will be crucial at the top. His positive intent in the opening match showed he is capable of providing quick starts, which can set the tone for big totals or smooth chases.
For the Stars, Haris Rauf stands out as a potential game-changer. His pace and ability to strike in both the powerplay and death overs make him a constant threat, especially on a surface that assists fast bowlers early on.
Pitch Report – Melbourne Cricket Ground
The MCG has traditionally been a venue where bowlers enjoy assistance, particularly with the new ball. Out of 28 T20I matches played here, teams chasing have won 16 times. The average first-innings score is around 140, but modern T20 standards suggest that anything below 160 could be vulnerable. As the pitch wears, batting becomes easier, making chasing a preferred option if conditions allow.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Details
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Australia: Fox Sports and Kayo Sports
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India: Star Sports Network and JioHotstar (app and website)
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Pakistan: Ten Sports and Tapmad TV
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United Kingdom: Sky Sports
Match Scenarios and Prediction
If the Stars bat first, their aim will be to exploit the middle overs through Maxwell and Stoinis to post a competitive total above par. Hurricanes, on the other hand, will rely on their bowling discipline and finishing power while chasing. Considering pitch behavior and recent trends at the venue, the team bowling first is likely to have a clear advantage.
Final Prediction: Team bowling first to win the match.