Aus-T20 League 2024/25

Match 38: REN vs HEA

Preview

The Melbourne Renegades (REN) are set to host the Brisbane Heat (HEA) at Marvel Stadium. The match promises much for both teams and could be a determining factor in the teams' Big Bash League playoff hopes.

The Renegades have had a trying period, losing five of their last six matches. Their batting lineup has been inconsistent and placed more burden on Jacob Bethell, who had a great match with 87 in the most recent game, as it was a rare highlight to an otherwise dismal season. Their bowling attack, led by Adam Zampa, has also not been easy on the team as they have mostly conceded high totals and failed to defend modest scores.

Contrary to this, Brisbane Heat has shown glimpses of brilliance in batting but failed at the crunching moments. After a match-winning performance, where they posted 201 against the Hobart Hurricanes, they were edged out off the last ball. Matthew Renshaw is going great guns, with Tom Alsop supporting him, making the depth of their batting an asset. However, their bowling and fielding have been inconsistent, especially in powerplay overs, with Spencer Johnson being the shining light among the league's top wicket-takers.

The Heat have a historical advantage over the Renegades, having won their last two matches. With a stronger batting lineup and momentum, Brisbane seems well-equipped to keep its playoff hopes alive against a struggling Renegades side.

Both teams know that the stakes are high—only a victory will keep their postseason dreams alive.

Match Details

Match: REN vs HEA, 38th Match, Aus-T20 League 2024-25

Date: Saturday, January 18, 2025

Time:11:30 AM

Venue: Docklands Stadium, Melbourne

Pitch and Weather Report

The Docklands Stadium has a flat batting surface so that batsmen can play strokes with confidence. Traditionally, teams batting first will look for a target around 170 to be safe, because the average score in the first innings at this venue is 157 runs.

The pitch is somewhat helpful to fast bowlers, giving them a chance to capitalize on any seam movement. However, spinners might find it difficult due to the shorter boundaries, which leave little room for error. In general, expect a high-scoring match with plenty of runs on offer.

On January 16, clear skies will blanket Melbourne. All conditions will thus be in favour of cricketing on this particular day.

REN vs HEA Squads

REN: Tim Seifert (wk), Will Sutherland (c), Josh Brown, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Tawanda Muyeye, Mackenzie Harvey, Harry Dixon, Thomas Stewart Rogers, Fergus O Neill, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa, Callum Stow, Xavier Crone, Oliver Peake

HEA: Colin Munro (c), Tom Alsop (wk), Jack Wood, Nathan McSweeney, Matt Renshaw, Max Bryant, Michael Neser, Will Prestwidge, Xavier Bartlett, Mitchell Swepson, Spencer Johnson, Daniel Drew, Paul Walter

REN vs HEA Probable Playing XIs

REN: Will Sutherland (C), Josh Brown, Harry Dixon, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Mackenzie Harvey, Fergus O'Neill, Kane Richardson, Tom Rogers, Tim Seifert, Callum Stow, Adam Zampa

HEA: Colin Munro (capt), Tom Alsop (wk), Xavier Bartlett, Max Bryant, Spencer Johnson, Nathan McSweeney, Michael Neser, Matthew Renshaw, Mitch Swepson, Paul Walter, Jack Wood

Match Prediction

We are backing the visitors to edge past their opponent and secure a hard-fought victory on Saturday. 

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