HEA vs STA BBL 2025-26, Pitch Report, Head to Head, Playing 11, AI Prediction

Match 20 of the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) 2025–26 will see Brisbane Heat (HEA) lock horns with the in-form Melbourne Stars (STA) at the iconic Gabba in Brisbane on Friday, January 2. With both teams eyeing crucial points, an exciting contest is on the cards under lights.

Match Details: HEA vs STA

Details	Information
Series	Big Bash League T20 2025–26 (BBL|15)
Match	Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars, Match 20
Date	Friday, 2nd January 2026
Time	01:45 PM IST
Toss Time	01:15 PM IST
Venue	The Gabba
City	Brisbane
Live Streaming	FanCode, JioHotstar
Live Telecast	Star Sports Network

Match Preview

The Brisbane Heat have had a mixed campaign so far, winning two out of five matches. Currently placed fifth on the points table, the Heat are coming into this match after a defeat and will be eager to bounce back, especially at their home ground where they traditionally perform well.

On the other hand, the Melbourne Stars have been exceptional this season. Winning all four matches, they sit comfortably at the top of the standings. With a balanced squad featuring experienced internationals and explosive all-rounders, the Stars will aim to extend their unbeaten streak.

Head-to-Head Record: HEA vs STA

Team	Matches Won
Brisbane Heat (HEA)	13
Melbourne Stars (STA)	8
No Result	0

Brisbane Heat hold the historical edge, but recent form favours the Stars.

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Weather & Pitch Report: The Gabba, Brisbane

• Weather Report: The weather forecast suggests a 30 percent chance of rain, but interruptions are expected to be minimal. Temperatures will hover around 25°C, with humidity close to 75 percent.
• Pitch Report: The Gabba surface traditionally offers a fair contest between bat and ball. Fast bowlers get bounce early, while batting becomes easier as the game progresses. Teams chasing have enjoyed success here, making bowling first a preferred option. A total of 180 or more could prove competitive on this wicket.

Probable Playing 11

Brisbane Heat (HEA) Playing 11

1. Colin Munro, 2. Jack Wildermuth, 3. Lachlan Hearne, 4. Matt Renshaw, 5. Max Bryant, 6. Hugh Weibgen, 7. Jimmy Peirson (wk), 8. Xavier Bartlett (c), 9. Matthew Kuhnemann, 10. Thomas Balkin, 11. Ollie Patterson

Melbourne Stars (STA) Playing 11

1. Joe Clarke, 2. Sam Harper (wk), 3. Campbell Kellaway, 4. Thomas Fraser Rogers, 5. Marcus Stoinis (c), 6. Glenn Maxwell, 7. Hilton Cartwright, 8. Tom Curran, 9. Mitchell Swepson, 10. Haris Rauf, 11. Peter Siddle

Who Will Win Today’s Match? (AI Prediction)

While Brisbane Heat have the advantage of playing at home and a positive head-to-head record, Melbourne Stars arrive with superior form and momentum. Their balanced squad and unbeaten run give them a psychological edge in this clash.

If Brisbane’s top order fires and their bowlers strike early, they can pose a serious challenge. However, on current form, the Stars look better placed to continue their winning streak.

AI Match Prediction: Melbourne Stars are favourites to win Match 20 of the BBL 2025–26 against Brisbane Heat.

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