Get the best HEA vs STA match 20 preview, fantasy cricket tips, probable playing XI, and data for the 20th encounter of BBL 2026. Expert examination and more with Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars.
HEA vs STA Match 20 Prediction
Brisbane Heat take on Melbourne Stars in Match 20 of BBL 2026 on Friday, January 2. The Gabba in Brisbane hosts this exciting clash between two contrasting teams today. Heat sit fifth with two wins from five games while Stars remain unbeaten.
Brisbane Heat lost their last game and need a win desperately now. They’ve had a mixed campaign so far with inconsistent performances throughout the season. Getting back to winning ways becomes crucial in this HEA vs STA battle tonight.
Melbourne Stars have been absolutely dominant in BBL 2026 with four straight wins already. They hold the top spot on the table and look unstoppable right now. Stars want to continue their perfect run in this encounter today.
Pitch Report and Fantasy Cricket Tips
The Gabba in Brisbane is one of Australia’s most famous cricket venues historically. The surface provides an entertaining contest between bat and ball for fans watching. Batting becomes easier during the second innings on this pitch usually in BBL 2026.
Chasing targets works better here, so captains prefer bowling first after winning the toss. Scores around 180 runs or above are considered match-winning totals at The Gabba. This pitch report suggests teams batting second enjoy clear advantages on this surface.
Sky stays clear with temperatures between 26-30°C at the stadium right now. Humidity measures 34%, making conditions dry and comfortable for players out there. No rain is expected, so the full match will happen without any interruptions tonight.
Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars Head-to-Head Record
Total Matches: 21
Brisbane Heat: 13
Melbourne Stars: 8
Possible Playing 11s (Predicted)
Brisbane Heat (HEA) Playing XI
Colin Munro, Jack Wildermuth, Lachlan Hearne, Matt Renshaw, Max Bryant, Hugh Weibgen, Jimmy Peirson(w), Xavier Bartlett(c), Matthew Kuhnemann, Thomas Balkin, Ollie Patterson
Melbourne Stars (STA) Playing XI
Joe Clarke, Sam Harper(w), Campbell Kellaway, Thomas Fraser Rogers, Marcus Stoinis(c), Glenn Maxwell, Hilton Cartwright, Tom Curran, Mitchell Swepson, Haris Rauf, Peter Siddle
HEA vs STA Dream11 Team Prediction
Wicketkeeper: Jimmy Peirson, Sam Harper
Batsmen: Colin Munro, Matt Renshaw
All-rounders: Jack Wildermuth, Marcus Stoinis(c), Glenn Maxwell, Tom Curran (vc)
Bowlers: Haris Rauf, Peter Siddle, Xavier Bartlett
Captain Choices for the Dream11
- Marcus Stoinis makes an excellent captain pick for your Dream11 team today
- Tom Curran can score massive points as a captain or vice-captain choices
Brisbane Heat vs Melbourne Stars Preview: Players to Avoid
- Sam Hain won’t play in today’s Playing XI lineup
- Blake Macdonald will not feature in this Playing XI either
This HEA vs STA Prediction report suggests exciting content for the BBL 2026 season. Today’s toss and pitch win will favors the chasing side. Captain choices should be from in-form players. Win probability suggests STA have 53% chances to win and 47% for HEA.
