Big Bash League Preview. As the tournament progresses the teams start to separate. Brisbane has been a surprise and sits a game clear on top. Then there is a log jam from second to sixth; Perth, Sydney Sixers, Melbourne Renegades, Hobart and Adelaide are all separated by one win. Last season\u2019s finalist, Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thunder, are stuck on one win each. This round of matches will see some changes as a host of English imports depart for India, while Australia has upcoming ODIs against Pakistan and New Zealand.<\/p>\n
The Renegades have won 2 of their 3 matches and their loss was a last grasp defeat to Perth. They will enter this contest with confidence after outplaying the Stars last week. They welcome back James Pattinson, and Thisara Perera replaces the injured Bravo. The Stars have been disappointing this season. They have lost their last two and threw away a golden opportunity against the winless Thunder.<\/p>\n
Stadium Record<\/strong> Head to Head Record<\/strong> Hobart has won 2 from 5 matches. They have been inconsistent with the bat and ball. It is disappointing to see Sri Lanakan legend Kumar Sangakkarra struggling. The Thunder\u2019s season still flickers after Eoin Morgan\u2019s six off the last ball defeated the Stars. Unfortunately, Morgan has left for international duties and their other star import, Andre Russell, has been replaced by Carlos Brathwaite.<\/p>\n Stadium Record<\/strong> Head to Head Record<\/strong> The Sixers have already won more games this season than last season. Daniel Hughes was the star in their last outing as they handed the Heat their only defeat. English imports Roy and Billings are now in India. The Renegades are backing up after playing the Stars two days ago. The short travel should have no impact.<\/p>\n Stadium Record<\/strong> Head to Head Record<\/strong> The Stars started their season slowly and are looking to build momentum. They will be aided if the middle order capitalises on the top order\u2019s starts. The bowlers have missed John Hasting\u2019s experience and expertise. Adelaide are 2-3 and their last game against the Hurricanes was their best. They won by 5 wickets after reducing Hobart to 5-30. Ben Dunk sealed victory with 79 not out.<\/p>\n Stadium Record<\/strong>
\nThe Renegades have split their two games at Etihad Stadium this season, which slightly improves their poor overall home record. Meanwhile, the Stars have a dominant Etihad Stadium record. They have won their last three there by 8 wickets, 112 runs and 9 wickets.<\/p>\n
\nThe Renegades victory last week against the Stars broke a six match losing streak against the green Melbourne army.<\/p>\nHobart Hurricanes vs Sydney Thunder<\/a>
\nBlundstone Arena, 8 January<\/h4>\n
\nHobart has 1 win and 1 loss at home this season. They lost to the Stars and beat the Strikers. The Thunder has never won at Blundstone Arena in four attempts.<\/p>\n
\nHobart has never lost to the Thunder. They have won all five matches. The closest result was last season\u2019s 11 run Hurricane victory at Blundstone Arena.<\/p>\nSydney Sixers vs Melbourne Renegades<\/a>
\nSCG, 9 January<\/h4>\n
\nSydney lost to Hobart early this season and then defeated Perth by 6 wickets at the SCG. The Melbourne Renegades have played at the SCG twice for 1 win. That win was in BBL02.<\/p>\n
\nThe Sixers have won the last three between these teams. Two of those matches were played in Melbourne while the other was at the SCG.<\/p>\nMelbourne Stars vs Adelaide Strikers
\nMCG, 10 January<\/h4>\n
\nThis is the Stars second home game this season after their loss on New Year\u2019s Day. Recent history suggests the Stars are a 50-50 proposition at home. On the other hand Adelaide has lost both their games at the MCG.<\/p>\n