Melbourne Stars will take on Sydney Thunder in the 12th match of the BBL 2023-24 on Saturday (December 23) at the Lavington Sports Oval in Albury. Both teams have played two matches so far and are still looking for their first win here.

In their recent encounter, the Melbourne Stars clashed with the Perth Scorchers. Opting to bowl after winning the toss, the Scorchers efficiently restricted the Stars to a mere 101 runs in 19.1 overs. Only four Stars’ batters reached double-digit scores. Jason Behrendorff showcased exceptional bowling prowess for the Scorchers, securing three crucial wickets for 28 runs in four overs. Scorchers successfully chased the modest target of 102 runs in 13.5 overs with seven wickets in hand.

Sydney Thunder elected to bat in their last game against Adelaide Strikers. Despite losing their first two wickets for a mere 27 runs. Cameron Bancroft and Oliver Davies added 54 runs for the third wicket and took the team’s total over the 50-run mark. Bancroft continued his solid batting display, forming an additional partnership of 82 runs for the fourth wicket, this time with Alex Ross.

Bancroft’s innings concluded in the 20th over, having scored a notable 74 runs off 54 deliveries. His efforts played a pivotal role in Thunder posting a formidable total of 200 runs for the loss of seven wickets in their allotted 20 overs. The bowling duo of David Payne and Jamie Overton played crucial roles for Thunder, each claiming two wickets.

In response, the opposition’s opening pair of Matthew Short and D’Arcy Short forged a dominating partnership of 139 runs for the first wicket, essentially shaping the outcome of the match. Matthew Short contributed significantly with a rapid 82 runs off 41 deliveries before being dismissed in the 13th over.
The Strikers successfully chased down the target, securing the victory with six wickets in hand in 19.4 overs. In the bowling department, Daniel Sams, Tanveer Sangha, and Zaman Khan each took one wicket for the Thunder.

Glenn Maxwell has returned to lead the Melbourne Stars. Joe Burns has also been added to the squad. Jason Sangha has been named in the squad for this game by the Sydney Thunder.

The average first innings score in the last five matches at the Lavington Sports Oval in Albury has been 228 runs. The team winning the toss might look to bowl here. Batters are likely to dominate in this match.

This team is based on the understanding, analysis, and instinct of the author. While selecting your team, consider the points mentioned and make your own decision.