Melbourne Stars vs Adelaide Strikers Prediction: Who Will Win MLS vs ADS 34th T20 BBL Match?
The Melbourne Stars vs Adelaide Strikers prediction for the 34th T20 match of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025–26 brings together two competitive sides at a crucial stage of the league phase. This contest will be played on Tuesday, 13th January 2026 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a venue known for high-quality cricket and big-match atmosphere. With the playoffs race tightening, every point is vital, especially for teams hovering around the middle of the table.
Melbourne Stars enter this fixture with renewed confidence after snapping a three-match losing streak with a dominant win over the Melbourne Renegades. That victory has helped them retain third position on the points table with 10 points from eight matches. The Stars have generally been more consistent this season, particularly with the bat, and their strong net run rate keeps them well placed for a top-four finish.
Adelaide Strikers, on the other hand, have struggled to maintain momentum. Sitting sixth with six points from seven matches, they still have a mathematical chance of qualifying, but the margin for error is extremely slim. They must win their remaining matches and hope for favorable results elsewhere. While the Strikers have match-winners in their lineup, inconsistency with both bat and ball has hurt them at key moments.
The previous meeting between these two sides saw Melbourne Stars defeat Adelaide Strikers by six wickets, giving the Stars a psychological edge. Considering form, squad depth, and home advantage, the Melbourne Stars vs Adelaide Strikers prediction slightly favors Melbourne Stars, though the Strikers remain capable of causing an upset if their key players fire.
- Melbourne Stars beat Adelaide Strikers by six wickets earlier this season
- Stars sit third on the table with stronger recent form
- Adelaide Strikers need wins urgently to stay in playoff contention
- MCG generally favors balanced teams with strong pace attacks
Match Details
| Match | MLS vs ADS, 34th T20 |
|---|---|
| Tournament | Big Bash League 2025–26 |
| Date | Tuesday, 13 January 2026 |
| Time | 1:45 PM |
| Venue | Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne |
Team Preview
Melbourne Stars Preview
Melbourne Stars have regained momentum at a critical time in the tournament. After a worrying run of three consecutive defeats, their emphatic eight-wicket win over the Melbourne Renegades has restored belief and balance within the squad. With two group-stage matches remaining, the Stars are well positioned to push for a strong finish and secure a playoff berth.
The backbone of their batting lineup has been Sam Harper, who has enjoyed an outstanding season. With 356 runs in seven matches at a strike rate of 159, Harper has provided consistent starts and anchored the innings effectively. His form at the top allows the middle order to play with freedom. The engine room features experienced campaigners Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis, both of whom can change games in a matter of overs. Stoinis, in particular, has rediscovered form and adds significant value as an all-rounder.
Support from Campbell Kellaway and Hilton Cartwright has added depth, ensuring the Stars are rarely short of batting resources. This balance has been crucial at venues like the MCG, where building partnerships often pays dividends.
Bowling has been another major strength. Haris Rauf has been lethal with his pace and bounce, while veteran Peter Siddle provides control and experience. Together, they have been instrumental in picking up wickets during key phases. Tom Curran and Stoinis offer flexibility, while Mitchell Swepson plays a holding role with his leg-spin, often forcing batters into errors. Overall, Melbourne Stars look settled, confident, and well-rounded heading into this fixture.
Adelaide Strikers Preview
Adelaide Strikers’ campaign has been one of missed opportunities. With three wins and five losses from eight matches, they find themselves sixth on the table, needing near-perfect results to keep their playoff hopes alive. While individual performances have stood out, the team has struggled to produce consistent all-round displays.
Captain Matthew Short has led the batting charts for the Strikers, scoring 242 runs at a steady strike rate. He has been supported by Liam Scott, arguably the most consistent batter in the lineup, with 274 runs at a healthy strike rate of 142. Chris Lynn has provided aggressive starts, but his inability to convert them into bigger scores has limited the Strikers’ impact in several matches.
The bowling unit has been led by Lloyd Pope, whose leg-spin has been effective in the middle overs. Jamie Overton adds pace and aggression, while Luke Wood and Hasan Ali have chipped in with wickets but at the cost of runs. The lack of control during the death overs has been a recurring issue.
Against a strong Melbourne Stars lineup at the MCG, Adelaide Strikers will need their senior players to deliver simultaneously if they are to stay competitive.
Also Check: BBL 2025-26: Points Table, Most Runs & Most Wickets
Team Squads
Melbourne Stars:
Thomas Rogers, Sam Harper, Campbell Kellaway, Blake Macdonald, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Hilton Cartwright, Mitchell Swepson, Tom Curran, Haris Rauf, Peter Siddle
Adelaide Strikers:
Matthew Short, Alex Carey, Chris Lynn, Liam Scott, Mackenzie Harvey, Jamie Overton, Harry Manenti, Luke Wood, Hasan Ali, Cameron Boyce, Lloyd Pope
Probable Playing XI
| Melbourne Stars | Adelaide Strikers |
|---|---|
| Thomas Rogers | Matthew Short (C) |
| Sam Harper (WK) | Alex Carey |
| Campbell Kellaway | Chris Lynn |
| Blake Macdonald | Liam Scott |
| Glenn Maxwell | Mackenzie Harvey (WK) |
| Marcus Stoinis (C) | Jamie Overton |
| Hilton Cartwright | Harry Manenti |
| Mitchell Swepson | Luke Wood |
| Tom Curran | Hasan Ali |
| Haris Rauf | Cameron Boyce |
| Peter Siddle | Lloyd Pope |
Melbourne Stars vs Adelaide Strikers Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Batters | Sam Harper, Matthew Short, Liam Scott |
| All-rounders | Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell |
| Bowlers | Haris Rauf, Lloyd Pope, Peter Siddle, Jamie Overton |
| Wicketkeeper | Alex Carey |
| Extra Batter | Chris Lynn |
For the Melbourne Stars vs Adelaide Strikers prediction, fantasy selections should prioritize in-form batters and impact all-rounders. Sam Harper is a must-pick given his consistency and ability to score big at the top. Marcus Stoinis offers dual value with bat and ball, making him a strong captaincy option. Glenn Maxwell’s explosiveness and occasional overs add further upside.
From Adelaide Strikers, Matthew Short and Liam Scott are reliable batting choices due to their consistency. In the bowling department, Haris Rauf’s pace at the MCG makes him a wicket-taking threat, while Lloyd Pope’s leg-spin can be effective in the middle overs.
Captain Choices: Marcus Stoinis, Sam Harper
Vice-Captain Choices: Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short
Players to Avoid: Harry Manenti, Blake Macdonald
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today & Why
Melbourne Stars are the favourites in this match due to their stronger form, superior squad balance, and home advantage at the MCG. They possess a more reliable batting lineup, led by Sam Harper and supported by experienced all-rounders like Stoinis and Maxwell. Their bowling attack, featuring Haris Rauf and Peter Siddle, has shown greater consistency compared to Adelaide Strikers. With momentum back on their side after a dominant win, Melbourne Stars appear better equipped to handle pressure situations and capitalize on key moments.
Melbourne Stars T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 160 | 77 | 82 | 1 |
Adelaide Strikers T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | No Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 158 | 76 | 78 | 4 |
Head-to-Head Stats (Melbourne Stars vs Adelaide Strikers)
| Matches | Stars Won | Strikers Won |
|---|---|---|
| 19 | 10 | 9 |
The rivalry has been extremely close, with Melbourne Stars holding a narrow edge of 10 wins to Adelaide Strikers’ 9, highlighting how evenly matched these teams have been historically.
Also Check: Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars Head to Head in T20 – Records, Team & Players Stats
Pitch Report
The Melbourne Cricket Ground offers good bounce and carry, making it a fair contest between bat and ball. Fast bowlers enjoy early movement, while batters who settle in can score freely due to the large outfield and true surface. Spinners rely on variations rather than turn. A first-innings score of 165–170 is considered competitive.
Weather Report
| Factor | Forecast |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 18–23°C |
| Rain Chance | Low |
| Humidity | Moderate |
Weather conditions in Melbourne are expected to be clear and pleasant. There is minimal chance of rain, ensuring uninterrupted play throughout the match.
Broadcast Details
The match will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network and streamed on JioHotstar. Fans can also follow live scores and updates through digital platforms.
Toss Prediction
As per the Melbourne Stars vs Adelaide Strikers prediction, the toss-winning side may choose to bowl first to take advantage of early movement. Adelaide Strikers are slightly favored to win the toss.
Score Prediction
If Melbourne Stars bat first, they are expected to score around 165–170. If Adelaide Strikers bat first, a total of 150–155 looks likely, depending on contributions from the top order.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
Sam Harper is the most probable top batsman for Melbourne Stars due to his exceptional consistency this season. For Adelaide Strikers, Liam Scott remains the key batting threat with his ability to build innings. With the ball, Haris Rauf is expected to be the standout bowler at the MCG, while Lloyd Pope could be the Strikers’ main wicket-taker in the middle overs.
Also Check For More: Big Bash League Prediction
Match Prediction
Based on current form, home advantage, and overall balance, the Melbourne Stars vs Adelaide Strikers prediction favours Melbourne Stars. Adelaide Strikers have the firepower to compete, but their inconsistency may once again prove costly. If Melbourne Stars execute their plans effectively, they should secure a crucial win and strengthen their playoff position.
Winner: Melbourne Stars 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.
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