Wayne Clark’s BBL Preview: Hurricanes vs Stars

Posted on February 13, 2019February 13, 2019 | Posted by Wayne Clark

Hurricanes vs Stars (Blundstone Arena)
Thursday 14th February, 4.30pm WST

A Maxwell masterclass has given the Stars their chance at glory in BBL08, and what a chance they have! They enter the final series with a full squad and plenty of momentum.

The return of their Australian internationals and young overseas recruit Sandeep Lamichhane has given them great confidence in taking it up to the form side of the competition in the Hurricanes. Marcus Stoinis has been exceptional since his return to the BBL with both bat (478 runs) and ball (14 wickets).  Add Dunk (276), Handscomb (158), Maxwell (287), Maddinson and Bravo and it means a batting line-up capable of exciting, unpredictable cricket.

The side is complimented by a balanced, inform bowling attack. Having the reappearance of Lamichhane (11 wickets in 6 games) will be telling. Stoinis (14), and Zampa (11) provide plenty of firepower and though he has only played three games due to injury, Daniel Worrall is sure to have a positive influence.

As for the Hurricanes, it is difficult to highlight a weakness. They may have faltered in their last game in Canberra, however they love the Bellerive wicket! They have won both contests between the two sides and dominated the Stars in Melbourne at their last meeting. In that contest the Stars were without Stoinis, Maxwell, Handscomb, Zampa and Lamichhane; so, keep that in mind.

The Short (602 runs)/Wade (590) opening partnership has looked unbreakable in most games this year and when required, Jewell (123), McDermott (323) and Bailey (326) have all given great support. The others have rarely been required. Hopefully it won’t be a negative, if by chance early wickets fall.

To pick a winner is difficult. The pressure is on the Hurricanes as they will be expected to continue their dominant form and win this game. On the other hand, the Stars will be the underdogs which will mean less expectations and maybe a carefree approach. This could suit such an unpredictable group. It is for that reason I’m backing the Stars to have one of those unpredictable days and take this Semi Final.

Tips

Winner: Stars

Hurricanes Most Runs: Ben McDermott
Stars Most Runs: Peter Handscomb

Hurricanes Most Wickets: James Faulkner
Stars Most Wickets: Dwayne Bravo

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