BBL 2025-26 Match 14: STA vs THU head-to-head, pitch report & predicted playing XIs

Melbourne Stars (STA) will take on Sydney Thunder (THU) in Match 14 of the Big Bash League 2025-26 at the Manuka Oval on Sunday, December 28. Both teams will be looking to strengthen their position on the points table as the tournament moves forward.

The Melbourne Stars have been in excellent form this season. They are currently sitting at the top of the table with all three victories in the three matches that they have played so far. The Stars appear to have a well-rounded performance in terms of both batting and bowling, so they have plenty of confidence. They will want to carry on with this unbeaten run.

On the other hand, Sydney Thunder has had an underwhelming start in the tournament. Sydney Thunder, led by David Warner, has won just one game out of three. Their negative net run rate shows that consistency has been an issue. However, this match gives them a good chance to bounce back and get back into the competition with a big win.

STA vs THU Head-to-Head Record (T20s)

• Total Matches Played: 22
  
• Melbourne Stars Won: 10
  
• Sydney Thunder Won: 12
  
• Tied / No Result: 0
  

STA vs THU: Pitch Report

The pitch at Manuka Oval usually becomes better for batting as the game goes on. Out of the 30 BBL matches played here, most have been won by teams chasing. This suggests that bowling first could be the smarter choice after winning the toss. However, any score around 180–190 will be challenging to chase.

See Also: SA20 League 2025-26: PR vs SEC Today Match Prediction – 3rd Match, Who Will Win Today?

STA vs THU: Predicted Playing XIs

Melbourne Stars (STA):

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

Sydney Thunder (THU):

Sam Konstas, Matthew Gilkes, David Warner (C), Cameron Bancroft, Sam Billings (WK), Shadab Khan, Daniel Sams, Chris Green, Nathan McAndrew, Tanveer Sangha, Reece Topley