BBL 2018-19, Match 31: Melbourne Stars vs Hobart Hurricanes: Dream11 Fantasy Cricket Tips – Playing XI, Pitch Report & Injury Update

The Melbourne Renegades halted Hobart Hurricanes’ winning spree by clinching a thrilling victory at the Docklands last week. With that, the Hurricanes’ hopes of recording their longest winning streak in the BBL came to an end. However, with five wins from six matches, they still stand at the top of the points table. The George Bailey-led team will be back on the field against the Melbourne Stars after a one-week break.

The Melbourne team suffered back to back defeats after some big names left them to join the national side the ODI series against India. After three consecutive wins, the Stars missed the services of Glenn Maxwell, Adam Zampa, Peter Handscomb and Marcus Stoinis. They will have a tough task against the in-form Hurricanes who have named an unchanged once again. The Stars left out Michael Beer and Tom O’Connell will be in line to replace him in the XI.

Match Details:

The 31st match of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2018-19 will be played between Melbourne Stars and Hobart Hurricanes at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The match starts at 7:15 PM local time (8:15 AM GMT) (1:45 PM IST).

The game will be live on Sony SIX and Sony SIX HD in India. Live streaming is available on Sony Liv.

Pitch Condition/Report:

The track at the MCG isn’t a high-scoring one but gives an advantage to the chasing side. The teams batting first aim for big totals and end up with below par scores given the big boundaries at the venue. Each of the previous 12 completed Twenty20 games were won by the chasing unit. This game will be played after the WBBL game between Melbourne Stars and Sydney Sixers.

Squads:

Melbourne Stars:

Nic Maddinson (C), Jackson Bird, Scott Boland, Liam Bowe, Dwayne Bravo, Ben Dunk, Seb Gotch, Evan Gulbis, Nick Larkin, Jonathan Merlo, Tom O’Connell, Liam Plunkett.

Hobart Hurricanes:

Matthew Wade (C), Jofra Archer, George Bailey, Johan Botha, Alex Doolan, Jake Doran, James Faulkner, Ben McDermott, Riley Meredith, Simon Milenko, David Moody, Clive Rose, D’Arcy Short.

Injury and Availability Updates after the announcement of the squads:

(Will be added when there is an update)

Power Picks:

On his return, Nic Maddinson has failed to impress with scores of 2 and 5. The Melbourne Stars will need far more than this from their skipper who was in good form before an injury. Maddinson scored 162 during the Sheffield Shield game in which he suffered an injury.

Captain and Vice-Captain Selection:

D’Arcy Short has been the most valuable player for the Hurricanes this season and has to be picked up as at least vice-captain. In the last two matches, Dwayne Bravo either performed with the bat or ball. The Stars will, in fact, need Bravo to perform in both the departments. The likes of Matthew Wade and James Faulker can be considered as vice-captain given their recent success in the tournament.

Playing XI #1 for Head to Head/Small Leagues:

Keeper – Matthew Wade

Batters – D’Arcy Short (C), Nic Maddinson, Ben McDermott, Ben Dunk

All-Rounders – James Faulkner, Johan Botha, Dwayne Bravo (VC)

Bowlers – Jofra Archer, Jackson Bird, Liam Plunkett

Playing XI #2 for Grand Leagues/Mega Leagues:

Keeper – Seb Gotch

Batters – D’Arcy Short (VC), Evan Gulbis (C), Ben McDermott, Ben Dunk

All-Rounders – James Faulkner, Johan Botha, Dwayne Bravo

Bowlers – Jackson Bird, Liam Plunkett, Riley Meredith

Expert Advice:

Going by the recent form, Jofra Archer shouldn’t be picked. The pacer who was sensational last season hasn’t caused any damage after a couple of good performances at the start of the tournament. Evan Gulbis opening the innings will help improve his prospect of creating an impact in the game and also power the Stars to a quick start.

Probable Winners:

Expect the Hobart Hurricanes to carry on their rich form and register the 6th win of the season.

*Disclaimer: 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.

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