STR vs STA, Big Bash League Match Prediction & Fantasy Tips

The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is set to host a massive Big Bash League clash as the Melbourne Stars take on the Adelaide Strikers. With the tournament heating up, every point on the leaderboard counts. The Stars are coming off a morale boosting win against the Renegades, while the Strikers are looking to snap a two match losing streak. For fantasy fans, this game is a goldmine of all rounders like Marcus Stoinis and Matthew Short who can dominate the contest.

Match Details

• Match: Melbourne Stars vs Adelaide Strikers (BBL T20)
• Date: 13 Jan 2026
• Time: 1:45 PM IST (19:15 Local Time)
• Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne

Live Streaming & Broadcast Details

Indian fans can catch the live action on the Star Sports Network. Digital streaming will be available on the Disney+ Hotstar app and website.

Weather Report

The forecast for Melbourne suggests a pleasant evening for cricket. Temperatures are expected to hover around 22°C to 24°C. It should be partly cloudy, but rain is unlikely to interrupt the game. The humidity levels will be moderate, which might offer a little swing early on.

Pitch Report & Venue Stats

The MCG is famous for its massive boundaries, which means running between the wickets is just as important as hitting sixes. The pitch generally offers a good balance between bat and ball.

• Venue Avg Runs: 157
• Pace vs Spin: Pacers have dominated here recently, taking 49 wickets in the last 5 matches compared to just 17 by spinners.
• Strategy: Focus on fast bowlers who hit the deck hard and batters who can build an innings. Spinners might struggle unless they have plenty of variations.

Team Form & Head to-Head

• Melbourne Stars: Won, Lost, Lost, Lost, Won (Mixed form, but momentum is high after the derby win).
• Adelaide Strikers: Lost, Lost, Won, Lost, Won (Struggling for consistency, heavily reliant on their top order).

Injury Updates & Player Availability

• Melbourne Stars: Marcus Stoinis and Sam Harper are in excellent touch. No major new injury concerns reported.
• Adelaide Strikers: Alex Carey returned with a bang in the last match (71 runs). Travis Head remains unavailable due to national duties.

Probable Playing XI

Melbourne Stars: Sam Harper (wk), Thomas Rogers, Campbell Kellaway, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Hilton Cartwright, Tom Curran, Jonathan Merlo, Haris Rauf, Peter Siddle, Mitchell Swepson.

Adelaide Strikers: Matthew Short, D'Arcy Short/Mackenzie Harvey, Chris Lynn, Alex Carey (wk), Liam Scott, Jamie Overton, Harry Manenti, Luke Wood, Tabraiz Shamsi, Lloyd Pope, Cameron Boyce.

Key Players to Watch

• Marcus Stoinis (STA): The Hulk is in prime form with 186 runs and 12 wickets in the series. He is a must have for your fantasy contests.
• Matthew Short (STR): The Strikers' MVP. With 242 runs and 5 wickets, he contributes in both innings.
• Sam Harper (STA): Coming off a brilliant 81, he is the top run scorer for the Stars this series (353 runs).
• Liam Scott (STR): A surprise package this season, averaging 80 fantasy points per match with 274 runs and crucial wickets.
• Haris Rauf (STA): Pure pace works at the MCG. He has 15 wickets in the series and loves bowling at the death.

Fantasy Picks for Your Contests

Top Captaincy Options:

1. Marcus Stoinis: High impact with both bat and ball.
2. Matthew Short: Opens the batting and bowls crucial overs.

Top Vice Captain Options:

1. Tom Curran: A death over specialist who can score quick runs.
2. Jamie Overton: Consistent wicket taker for the Strikers.

Budget Picks:

• Liam Scott: High value for credits.
• Sam Harper: In great batting form.

Match Prediction / Outlook

While the Strikers have a strong batting lineup on paper, the Melbourne Stars have the home advantage and better momentum. The MCG pitch suits the Stars' pace attack (Rauf, Siddle, Curran). Expect a close contest, but the Melbourne Stars hold a slight edge to win this encounter.

Disclaimer

This analysis is based on player stats, recent form, and pitch reports. Fantasy sports involve an element of financial risk and may be addictive. Please play responsibly and at your own risk. This team is for reference only; finalize your lineup after the toss.