Melbourne Renegades v Melbourne Stars BBL Tips, Predictions and Preview

Gary Emmerson:

Time is running out for the Renegades as they look to get a first win on the board in the Big Bash League when they host the Stars in the Melbourne Derby at Marvel Stadium on Friday.

The Stars are top of the table with 12 points (W6, L1) and have won their last four matches and enter as favourites against the 0-7 Renegades.

When the sides met earlier in the season at MCG, the Stars ran out a comfortable eight-wicket winner with Sandeep Lamichhane (3/26) and Marcus Stoinis (68* off 55 balls) the match-winners.

Melbourne Renegades

It has been a completely disappointing season for the Renegades, as they continue to struggle with both bat and ball. Beau Webster (236 runs, SR 142.16) has been a surprise package. Shaun Marsh’s experience (235 runs, SR 116.91) will also be vital as the Renegades plot a ‘Houdini act’ to make the playoffs.

Kane Richardson’s absence will be a big blow, considering he’s the only player to have taken more than six wickets for the Renegades. The overseas imports have been a complete disaster for the champions, who are looking lost for balance and ideas.

Melbourne Stars

As for the Stars, it has been going great guns. Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell have amassed 559 runs between them and the fact both have been overlooked for national duty will be massive.

The return of Haris Rauf to the side is a huge positive for the Stars. Lamichhane is yet to hit his top form and that is a slight worry, particurly with Adam Zampa heading off on national duty.

Match Up

The Stars have been totally reliant on Stoinis and Maxwell and the fact the pair missed on ODI selection for Australia is welcome news for Stars fans. The challenge for the Renegades is huge considering they are yet to win a game.

History & Statistics

  • The Renegades have lost six of eight matches at this venue against the Stars.
  • The Stars have a 6-1 win-loss record while losing the toss against the Renegades.
  • The Stars have scored the highest powerplay score in their last three BBL matches.
  • Four of the last six H2Hs were won by the chasing side.

Key Players

If there is a positive in the season for the Renegades, it is Webster. He has a very impressive SR of 142.16 and has two 50s already. With Aaron Finch departing, his runs could be crucial.

What can we say about Haris Rauf? The Pakistani pacer has taken the Big Bash by storm and has 13 wickets in just four matches. That includes a sensational hat-trick in the last match.

Tips