BBL 2025-26 Knockout: HUR vs STA head-to-head, pitch report & predicted playing XIs

Hobart Hurricanes (HUR) will play against Melbourne Stars (STA) in the Knockout match of the Big Bash League 2025-26 at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart on Tuesday, January 21. The winner will move closer to the final, while the loser will be out of the tournament.

Hobart Hurricanes finished third on the points table after a mixed end to the league stage. They managed only one win in their last three matches, suffering a narrow three-run loss to Brisbane Heat in their final league game. To make matters worse, regular captain Nathan Ellis is out due to injury, and Ben McDermott will lead the team in this important match. Despite this setback, the Hurricanes still have a strong and balanced squad.

Melbourne Stars also ended the league phase with ups and downs. They started their campaign with four consecutive wins but struggled in the middle and bounced back strongly to secure a playoff spot. A convincing six-wicket win over Adelaide Strikers helped them gain momentum ahead of this knockout clash. Led by Marcus Stoinis, the Stars will look to carry that confidence forward.

HUR vs STA: Head-to-Head Record (T20s)

Matches Played: 23
Hobart Hurricanes Won: 8
Melbourne Stars Won: 15
No Result: 0

HUR vs STA: Pitch Report

The pitch at Bellerive Oval has been good for batting this season. Five matches have been played here so far, with the average first-innings score around 180. Teams batting first have won most games, but captains may still prefer to bowl first to know the target. Pacers get some early help, while spinners come into play as the match progresses.

HUR vs STA: Predicted Playing XIs

Hobart Hurricanes (HUR):

Tim Ward, Mitchell Owen, Matthew Wade (WK), Ben McDermott (C), Nikhil Chaudhary, Beau Webster, Rehan Ahmed, Chris Jordan, Rishad Hossain, Riley Meredith, Billy Stanlake

Melbourne Stars (STA):

Thomas Rogers, Sam Harper (WK), Campbell Kellaway, Marcus Stoinis (C), Hilton Cartwright, Joe Clarke, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Swepson, Haris Rauf, Tom Curran, Peter Siddle