Melbourne Stars Academy vs Hobart Hurricanes Academy Prediction: Who Will Win 7th T20 Top End Series Match on 16th August 2025?
Melbourne Stars Academy vs Hobart Hurricanes Academy prediction for the 7th T20 of the Top End Series 2025 promises a competitive battle between two sides aiming to climb the points table. Scheduled for Saturday, 16th August 2025 at Marrara Cricket Ground, Darwin, this clash will be crucial for both teams’ momentum. Hobart Hurricanes Academy come into the match with one win from two games, riding high after a convincing victory against ACT. Melbourne Stars Academy, on the other hand, are looking to bounce back after a narrow defeat to Melbourne Renegades Academy. With both teams possessing promising young talents and key match-winners, this contest could be decided by fine margins. Cricketwebs brings you the most accurate match prediction tips for this fixture.
Match Details
| Match | Melbourne Stars Academy vs Hobart Hurricanes Academy – 7th T20 |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, 16th August 2025 |
| Time | 10:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Marrara Cricket Ground, Darwin |
Team Previews
Melbourne Stars Academy Preview
Melbourne Stars Academy have had a shaky start, currently sitting at 8th place with one loss. In their last outing, they fell short by just 4 runs against Melbourne Renegades Academy. The batting unit looked promising, with Sam Harper (34) and Tom Fraser Rogers (36) providing a solid start, while Jonathan Merlo anchored the chase with 41 runs off 33 balls. However, the middle order failed to accelerate when it mattered most.
Doug Warren, with 1 wicket, has been their top bowler, but the attack overall lacked penetration. Cameron McClure and Hamish McKenzie will need to step up in this match to contain Hobart’s aggressive batting. The Stars have enough firepower in their squad, but they must execute better in the death overs with both bat and ball to secure their first win.
Hobart Hurricanes Academy Preview
The Hurricanes Academy are currently 3rd with one win, having chased down 161 comfortably against ACT in their last match. Bradley Hope’s match-winning 65 and Macalister Wright’s 47 were standout contributions, while Tim Ward’s quickfire 24 ensured they crossed the line with an over to spare.
Their bowling has been effective, with Nivethan Radhakrishnan leading the way with 2 wickets and maintaining pressure in the powerplay. Aristides Karvelas and Billy Stanlake’s pace options give them depth, while Louis Smith offers control in the middle overs.
However, the Hurricanes’ top order needs to guard against early collapses, as losing key wickets early could put pressure on the middle order. If they can build partnerships, they have the edge in chasing totals.
Squads
Melbourne Stars Academy:
Blake Macdonald, Campbell Kellaway, Max Birthisel, Thomas Rogers, Aryan Sharma, Austin Anlezark, Christian Howe, Jonathan Merlo, Liam Blackford (wk), Sam Harper (wk), Cameron McClure, Doug Warren, Hamish McKenzie, Sam Elliott
Hobart Hurricanes Academy:
Charlie Wakim, Macalister Wright, Tim Ward, Bradley Hope, Gabe Bell, Louis Smith, Nivethan Radhakrishnan, Zac Curtain (wk), Billy Stanlake, Iain Carlisle, Marcus Bean, Raf MacMillan, Tom Dwyer, Will Prestwidge
Probable Playing XI
Melbourne Stars Academy:
Sam Harper (wk), Blake Macdonald, Tom Fraser Rogers, Jonathan Merlo, Campbell Kellaway, Aryan Sharma, Austin Anlezark, Cameron McClure, Doug Warren, Hamish McKenzie, Sam Elliott
Hobart Hurricanes Academy:
Charlie Wakim, Macalister Wright, Tim Ward, Bradley Hope, Nivethan Radhakrishnan, Will Prestwidge, Louis Smith, Zac Curtain (wk), Billy Stanlake, Aristides Karvelas, Gabe Bell
Fantasy Team XI
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| WK | Sam Harper, Zac Curtain |
| Batters | Macalister Wright, Bradley Hope, Jonathan Merlo |
| All-rounders | Nivethan Radhakrishnan (C), Will Prestwidge |
| Bowlers | Doug Warren, Billy Stanlake, Cameron McClure, Gabe Bell |
Captain Suggestions:
- Nivethan Radhakrishnan
- Bradley Hope
Players to Avoid:
- Aryan Sharma (inconsistent returns)
- Marcus Bean (low recent impact)
Fantasy Analysis:
Radhakrishnan’s all-round skills and recent form make him an ideal captain choice, while Bradley Hope’s batting consistency makes him a strong vice-captain. Bowlers like Stanlake and McClure can be valuable point earners if the pitch offers assistance.
Favourite Team in Today’s Match
Melbourne Stars Academy enter this clash as favourites despite being lower on the table. Their batting depth, led by Harper, Rogers, and Merlo, gives them more stability compared to Hobart’s dependency on Bradley Hope. If their bowling unit can deliver disciplined spells, they should be able to restrict the Hurricanes’ scoring. Stars’ narrow loss in the last game shows they are competitive, and with minor improvements, they can turn close defeats into wins. Playing on a neutral venue like Darwin also reduces the home advantage factor, levelling the playing field.
Pitch Report
The Marrara Cricket Ground generally offers good batting conditions with an even bounce. However, the surface can slow down in the second innings, bringing spinners into play. Scores between 150–165 are competitive here.
Weather Report
Clear skies are expected with temperatures around 28°C. Humidity could be moderate, making conditions comfortable for players. No rain is forecast.
Broadcast Details
Live streaming will be available on Fancode.
Score Prediction
- If Melbourne Stars Academy bat first: 163+
- If Hobart Hurricanes Academy bat first: 147+
Toss Prediction
Winner: Hobart Hurricanes Academy
Match Prediction
Winner: Melbourne Stars Academy will win
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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