The Big Bash League (BBL) rings in the New Year with a high-stakes encounter at Docklands Stadium (Marvel Stadium) as the Melbourne Renegades host the Sydney Sixers. Both teams are looking to shake off sluggish starts to the season and climb the ladder in this 18th match of the tournament.
The Renegades return to their home turf coming off consecutive defeats against the Hurricanes. Their biggest blow is the absence of star spinner Adam Zampa, who is sidelined with a neck strain. Fans can keep an eye on Tim Seifert, who has been the Renegades’ most consistent performer with the bat. Jake Fraser-McGurk is due for a big score after a quiet start to the season, and he historically performs well at this venue.
Despite their pedigree, the Sixers have struggled for momentum. However, they hold a massive psychological advantage, having won nine consecutive matches against the Renegades. The inclusion of Babar Azam provides world-class stability at the top but his form is concerning factor for the Sixers. All-rounder Jack Edwards has been a standout with the ball, while Josh Philippe remains their primary engine in the powerplay.
MR vs SS, BBL|15: Match details
- Date and Time: January 01, 2026; 10:30 am IST / 5:00 am GMT / 4:00 pm Local
- Venue: Docklands Stadium, Melbourne
MR vs SS, Head-to-Head Record in BBL
Matches played: 20 | Melbourne Renegades won: 5 | Sydney Sixers won: 14 | No result/Tied: 1
Docklands Stadium Pitch Report
The New Year’s Day clash at Docklands Stadium promises a high-scoring contest on a traditionally batting-friendly drop-in pitch characterized by consistent bounce and short square boundaries. While the retractable roof ensures a controlled environment free from weather interruptions, the surface typically favors pace over spin, with the ball skidding on nicely under the lights. The toss-winning captain will likely elect to bat first to capitalize on the flat initial conditions and apply scoreboard pressure in what is historically a difficult venue for chasing high totals.
Squads:
Melbourne Renegades: Josh Brown, Tim Seifert, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Jake Fraser-McGurk, Oliver Peake, Hassan Khan, Will Sutherland (c), Andrew Tye, Gurinder Sandhu, Jason Behrendorff, Sam Elliott, Caleb Jewell, Fergus O Neill, Matthew Spoors
Sydney Sixers: Babar Azam, Daniel Hughes, Josh Philippe (wk), Moises Henriques (c), Jordan Silk, Jack Edwards, Ben Dwarshuis, Joel Davies, Ben Manenti, Sean Abbott, Jafer Chohan, Lachlan Shaw, Hayden Kerr, Mitchell Perry
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MR vs SS, BBL|15: Today’s Match Prediction
Case 1:
- Melbourne Renegades wins the toss and bats first
- Melbourne Renegades’ powerplay score: 45-55 (6 overs)
- Melbourne Renegades’ total score: 160-170
Case 2:
- Sydney Sixers wins the toss and bats first
- Sydney Sixers’ powerplay score: 50-60 (6 overs)
- Sydney Sixers’ total score: 175-185
Match result: Team batting first to win the contest
