• Match: Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Sixers, 28th Match, Big Bash League 2023-24
• Date and Time: January 06, 08:15 am GMT/ 01:45 pm IST / 07:15 pm local time
• Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne

Melbourne Stars: The Melbourne Stars team is riding high on confidence following consecutive wins against the Sixers, Hurricanes, Strikers, and Renegades. Although facing the Sydney Sixers is always a formidable challenge, the Stars carry a strong sense of self-assurance, particularly after their victory on Boxing Day against the Sixers.

Sydney Sixers: On the other hand, the Sydney Sixers have faced unfortunate weather conditions, leading to a DLS disadvantage in their recent game against the Brisbane Heat. Despite not securing a BBL victory since Match 11, the Sixers possess a roster filled with potent T20 players, hinting at their continued strength in the league.

Melbourne Stars: Glenn Maxwell (Captain), Thomas Rogers, Dan Lawrence, Beau Webster, Marcus Stoinis, Sam Harper (Wicket-Keeper), Hilton Cartwright, Imad Wasim, Joel Paris, Jonathan Merlo, Mark Steketee.

Sydney Sixers: Moises Henriques (Captain), Josh Philippe (Wicket-Keeper), James Vince, Kurtis Patterson, Jordan Silk, Tom Curran, Jack Edwards, Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis, Todd Murphy, Steve O’Keefe.

With both teams level on points, the upcoming match promises to be closely contested. The Sydney Sixers, having faced interruptions in their last three matches, look forward to better weather conditions for this fixture. While the Melbourne Stars are in excellent form, there is a slight concern about over-reliance on Glenn Maxwell both with the bat and ball. Our prediction anticipates a competitive match, with the Sydney Sixers securing the win.

In the Melbourne derby earlier this month at this venue, the Stars secured victory while batting second. Based on this trend, it’s anticipated that both captains, if they win the toss, will opt to field first in the upcoming game.

At the Melbourne Cricket Ground, a competitive score is not likely to surpass 155 in this match. The pitch is expected to maintain consistency but won’t offer notably high speed.

Saturday’s weather forecast indicates cloudy and overcast conditions with no expected rainfall. However, high humidity levels are anticipated throughout the day.

• Stadium: Melbourne Cricket Ground
• City: Melbourne
• Capacity: 100000
• Ends: Members End, Great Southern Stand End
• Hosts to: Australia, Victoria