The BBL 2025-26 playoffs ignite with a high-stakes Knockout encounter as the Hobart Hurricanes host the Melbourne Stars at Bellerive Oval. In a brutal win-or-go-home format, the defending champion Hurricanes, who have been consistently strong, face the formidable Stars, a team packed with match-winners. With a spot in the Challenger final on the line, expect a tense, electrifying contest under the Hobart lights.
Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Stars Win Probability
HH vs MS Batting Tips
Hobart Hurricanes vs Melbourne Stars, Knockout Match Details
| Match | Big Bash League 2025-26, Knockout Match |
| Date | Wednesday, 21 January 2026 |
| Time | 02:00 PM (IST), 04:30 PM LOCAL |
| Venue | Bellerive Oval, Hobart |
| Live Streaming (TV) | Sony Sports Network |
| Live Streaming (Mobile) | JioHotstar |
HH vs MS Match Prediction & Analysis (Who Will Win?)
This is a classic playoff showdown between consistency and star power. The Hobart Hurricanes have been the more reliable unit throughout the season, boasting a balanced attack and a batting line-up led by the prolific Nikhil Chaudhary (279 runs). They also have the significant advantage of playing at home, where they’ve won three of five games this season. The Melbourne Stars possess undeniable firepower with Sam Harper (371 runs) and Marcus Stoinis, but their form has been patchy. In a high-pressure knockout, the Hurricanes’ all-round cohesion and home ground edge make them favourites. The prediction leans towards the Hobart Hurricanes.
HH vs MS Head to Head (Last 5 Matches)
| HH Won | 02 |
| MS Won | 03 |
| Draw/No Result | 00 |
HH vs MS Teams Preview (Top Players to Watch)
Hobart Hurricanes
Nathan Ellis’s defending champions are a well-drilled unit. Their batting is powered by the in-form Nikhil Chaudhary and the steady Ben McDermott (270 runs). The bowling attack is versatile and potent, with Riley Meredith and Nathan Ellis (23 wickets combined) providing pace and Rishad Hossain’s spin (13 wickets) being a constant threat.
HH Probable Playing XI-
Mitchell Owen, Tim Ward, Beau Webster, Ben McDermott, Nikhil Chaudhary, Matthew Wade (WK), Rehan Ahmed, Chris Jordan, Nathan Ellis (C), Rishad Hossain, Riley Meredith.
Top Player to Watch- Nikhil Chaudhary & Chris Jordan.
Melbourne Stars
Marcus Stoinis leads a team bursting with individual talent. Their batting revolves around the tournament’s third-highest run-scorer, Sam Harper, and the all-round prowess of Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell. The bowling, led by the fiery Haris Rauf and the experienced Peter Siddle (34 wickets combined), needs to be disciplined against a strong Hurricanes line-up.
MS Probable Playing XI-
Sam Harper (WK), Thomas Fraser Rogers, Campbell Kellaway, Blake Macdonald, Marcus Stoinis (C), Tom Curran, Hilton Cartwright, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Swepson, Haris Rauf, Peter Siddle.
Top Player to Watch- Sam Harper – The Stars’ batting talisman. A big score from him at the top is essential to set up or chase a daunting total.
HH vs MS Weather & Pitch Report
Bellerive Oval is a good batting surface where teams batting first have regularly scored between 180-190 this BBL season. A total of around 185 is considered competitive and will challenge the chasing side, especially under lights.
Increasing cloudiness, cooler temperatures, and occasional drizzle are forecast for Hobart. Rain interruptions could play a role in this crucial knockout fixture.
HH vs MS Toss Prediction
Given the trend at Bellerive Oval and the advantage of chasing a defined target under lights, the captain winning the toss is highly likely to choose to bowl first.
HH vs MS Dream11 Team
- Wicket-keeper: Sam Harper, Matthew Wade
- Batters: Ben McDermott, Nikhil Chaudhary, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell
- All-rounders: Beau Webster, Tom Curran
- Bowlers: Riley Meredith, Nathan Ellis, Haris Rauf, Rishad Hossain
Pro Tip: Dream11 offer free team creation for users outside India. In a knockout game, prioritize players known for performing under pressure. Always finalize your team after the official playing XIs are announced, typically 30 minutes before the match start (around 01:30 PM IST), and monitor the weather closely.
Disclaimer: This match prediction is based on analysis of recent form, head-to-head records, and pitch conditions. It is for entertainment purposes only. We do not endorse or engage in any illegal betting activities. Users, especially from India, must comply with all local laws, including regulations under the new Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025.
