The Big Bash League (BBL) is back, and the opening match will see Perth Scorchers and Melbourne Stars taking on each other on Sunday at Perth Stadium, Perth. Both teams would look to kick off their campaign on a strong note. For the Perth Scorchers, they will eye a strong start after making an early exit during the last season. Ashton Turner will be leading the side. Turner, meanwhile, has been having a rib complaint. Their squad is strong, boasting the likes of Finn Allen, Cooper Connolly and Aaron Hardie.
On the other hand, Melbourne Stars will be hoping for a fresh start after enduring a series of disappointing seasons. Despite having a roster filled with star power, the Stars have struggled in recent years to translate their talent into consistent performances.
With a new season comes new hope, and the Stars will be looking to improve on their past campaigns and make a significant push towards the finals. Meanwhile, their explosive batter Glenn Maxwell has been ruled out of the opening game. Melbourne Stars have also named Marcus Stoinis as their new skipper ahead of the competition's start.
HEAD TO HEAD
Matches: 23
No Result: 1
Perth Scorchers: 14
Melbourne Stars: 8
PERTH SCORCHERS Probable XI: Finn Allen, Cooper Connolly, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis (wk), Ashton Turner (c), Nick Hobson, Ashton Agar, Jhye Richardson, Andrew Tye, Jason Behrendorff, Lance Morris
MELBOURNE STARS Probable XI: Sam Harper (wk), Tom Rogers, Cambpell Kellaway, Marcus Stoinis (c), Hilton Cartwright, Beau Webster, Tom Curran, Brody Couch, Mark Steketee, Joel Paris, Hamish McKenzie