Big Bash League 2019 Match 33, Adelaide Strikers vs Melbourne Renegades: Preview, likely XIs, predictions

Adelaide Strikers will host defending champions Melbourne Renegades for Match 33 of the 2019-20 BBL, at Adelaide Oval. With 3 wins and 3 defeats, the Strikers are placed well in the run for a Playoffs spot; the Renegades, on the other hand, are still winless in this edition.

The teams have met in the tournament before, at Docklands Stadium, Melbourne. Rashid Khan stole the show that day, first with a 16-ball 25, then with a run out and figures of 4-0-15-2. The Strikers won by 18 runs that day.

As is the case every season, Rashid has emerged as the Strikers’ most important player. Despite having a couple of off days, he still features in the list of top five wicket-takers, and is coming off a hat-trick in his last match. He has also been in terrific batting form: his strike rate reads a whopping 189.

While Jonathan Wells and Alex Carey have contributed with bat, but Jake Weatherald has been the Strikers’ surprise package. As always, Peter Siddle has been difficult to get away, but really, the Strikers’ success has revolved mostly around Rashid.

As for the Renegades, time is running out for them. They are still only 6 points behind the two seventh-placed sides, but with only 6 matches left, they need to turn things around quickly.

Head to head

With 5 wins apiece, the teams are evenly matched – though the Strikers had won this season’s clash.

Key players

Rashid Khan (Adelaide Strikers): The Strikers’ MVP for several seasons now, Rashid will be expected to live up to the expectations. They are playing the lowest-placed table, and Adelaide will want to secure 2 points here.

Beau Webster (Melbourne Renegades): Webster’s exploits (261 runs at a strike rate of 144) have been among of a handful of high points for the Renegades this season. A lot will depend on how he counters the Strikers bowlers, especially Rashid.

Brief scores

Adelaide Strikers: Phil Salt, Jake Weatherald, Matthew Short, Alex Carey (c & wk), Jonathan Wells, Cameron Valente, Rashid Khan, Michael Neser, Peter Siddle, Harry Conway, Billy Stanlake.

Melbourne Renegades: Shaun Marsh, Marcus Harris, Beau Webster, Dan Christian (c), Tom Cooper, Sam Harper (wk), Samit Patel, Bill Sutherland, Cameron Boyce, Joe Mennie, Richard Gleeson.

Prediction

The Strikers to win and move closer to ensuring a Playoffs seat.