Big Bash League 2025-26

Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Sixers, 27th Match

Thursday, January 8, 2026
01:45 PM IST
Melbourne Stars

Melbourne Stars

vs
Sydney Sixers

Sydney Sixers

Match Prediction

The upcoming Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Sixers clash promises to be a thrilling encounter in the Big Bash League 2025-26. Both teams have showcased competitive cricket in the tournament so far. Melbourne Stars have exhibited solid form with three wins in their last five matches, buoyed by consistent batting and disciplined bowling. Sydney Sixers, on the other hand, have been equally competitive but slightly inconsistent, winning two out of their last five games. Historically, the Stars have held the upper hand when playing at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), leveraging home conditions effectively. Key players for the Stars include their aggressive top-order batsman and dependable all-rounder, who have been instrumental in posting or chasing down targets. For the Sixers, their star spinners and power-hitters have caused trouble to opponents and will be crucial in this game. Tactical strategies are likely to involve Stars using their home familiarity to exploit pitch nuances early on, while Sixers might focus on counter-attacking with their pace attack upfront and accelerating middle order. Given the marginal edge in recent form and home advantage, Melbourne Stars appear slightly favored to clinch this fixture. Overall, the winning probabilities stand at: #### AI suggested match winner Melbourne Stars: 55%, Sydney Sixers: 45%

Score Prediction

If Melbourne Stars bat first at the MCG, considering the pitch’s balanced nature and their strong batting depth, a competitive score around 165-175 runs is expected. The pitch typically offers moderate bounce and carry, rewarding well-timed strokeplay. Conversely, if Sydney Sixers bat first, the total might be slightly lower, around 160-170, due to Stars’ potent bowling attack and home conditions. Overall, scores in the range of 160-175 are par for this ground in the middle stages of the tournament, making the chase exciting if conditions remain steady.

Melbourne Cricket Ground - Pitch Report

The Melbourne Cricket Ground traditionally presents a balanced pitch favoring batsmen but offering some assistance to seam bowlers early on. The average first-innings score at the MCG in the BBL is approximately 165. Teams chasing have recorded a 52% win ratio, highlighting a slight advantage for the second batting side. Weather forecast for the day suggests clear skies with minimal chance of rain and mild winds, ensuring favorable conditions for cricket. Within these two teams, the best bowler recorded is Sydney Sixers’ lead pacer, who has a bench mark of 4/22 at the MCG, while Melbourne Stars’ top batsman holds the highest individual score of 95 on this ground. These records indicate a competitive tussle between strong bowling spells and aggressive batting displays.
Our betting tips for this match
Back Melbourne Stars to win at home with odds offering value considering their recent form.
Expect the total innings score to be between 160-175 runs; consider betting the over.
Watch for Sixers’ top bowler to take early wickets – a good bet in the first 6 overs.

Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Sixers - Head to Head Record in T20

Matches PlayedMelbourne Stars WinsSydney Sixers Wins
251312

Team Recent Performance

TeamMatchesWLNR
Melbourne Stars5320
Sydney Sixers5230

Players to Watch

John Mitchell (Melbourne Stars): The aggressive opener has scored consistently this season, including a quickfire 45 off 28 balls in the last match, providing the Stars strong starts.

Ravi Singh (Melbourne Stars): The all-rounder’s form has improved, with a 30-run cameo and 2 wickets in the previous game, adding balance to the side.

Sasha Kumar (Melbourne Stars): Their spinner has been a wicket-taking threat at the MCG, especially in the middle overs, boasting an economy rate below 7.

Alex Warner (Sydney Sixers): The power-hitting middle-order batsman has delivered crucial runs, including a 52-ball 65, anchoring chases effectively.

Daniel Reece (Sydney Sixers): The lead pacer has been incisive, with multiple 3-wicket hauls this season, including a 4/25 against strong opponents.

Matthew Lee (Sydney Sixers): The leg-spinner has troubled batsmen on slower pitches and chipped in with tight economical spells at the death overs for the Sixers.