Melbourne Renegades vs Adelaide Strikers Prediction: Strikers lost three in nine against Renegades

Melbourne Renegades and Adelaide Strikers are going head to head in the 18th Match of Big Bash League at Marvel Stadium, Australia on 29 Dec 2023. Strikers have lost only three games against Renegades in last nine outings. Who will win this game of cricket?

The Renegades have had a dismal start to the season, failing to secure a victory in their first five matches. Their only point came from a match that was abandoned. As they approach the halfway point of the season, the Renegades are eager to secure a win. On Boxing Day, they came close to defeating the Perth Scorchers, thanks to impressive bowling performances from Will Sutherland and Kane Richardson in the final overs. However, the Scorchers remained composed and emerged victorious. Shaun Marsh, who missed the first four matches, made a strong comeback with a remarkable half-century. Marsh, along with Jake Fraser-McGurk, will be crucial batsmen for the Renegades. The opening pair of Quinton de Kock and Joe Clarke have performed adequately thus far, but a strong start from them will be essential for the team. The pace trio of Sutherland, Richardson, and Tom Rogers have been impressive, with Sutherland and Rogers leading the team in wickets, each with a total of six. The spin attack is also formidable, with Adam Zampa and Mujeeb Ur Rahman both claiming four wickets apiece.

JM Clarke, Q de Kock (wk), J Fraser-McGurk, Nic Maddinson (C), SE Marsh, JW Wells, W Sutherland, T S Rogers, KW Richardson, A Zampa, Mujeeb Ur Rahman

Currently ranked 4th on the table with 3 points, the Adelaide Strikers have played the fewest number of games at 3. A victory in their upcoming match will solidify their position in the top 4. Matthew Short has been in outstanding form, performing well in both batting and bowling. Having scored 137 runs and taking 3 wickets, he has achieved half-centuries in both of his previous outings. His opening partner, D'Arcy Short, will aim to provide a strong start for the team. The middle order boasts explosive batsmen like Chris Lynn, Jake Weatherald, and Adam Hose. Jamie Overton and James Bazley add depth to the batting lineup with their all-round abilities. Overton, with 5 wickets, leads the team in wicket-taking. In the seam attack, he will be supported by David Payne and Wes Agar. Cameron Boyce will contribute to the spin department alongside Matthew Short.

MW Short (C), DJM Short, CA Lynn, J Weatherald, AJ Hose, J Overton, James Bazley, HJ Nielsen (wk), WA Agar, David Payne, CJ Boyce

It is likely that the team that wins the toss will choose to bowl first. The pitch at Docklands Stadium provides equal opportunities for both batsmen and bowlers. The average first-inning score on this ground is approximately 160. Nevertheless, the team batting first will aim to exceed a score of 175 to give the bowlers a fair chance to defend it. Initially, the quick bowlers will experience some movement with the new ball, but as it becomes softer, conditions will settle down. The weather in Melbourne is expected to be clear, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 18 degrees. 

Despite being a high-quality team, the Melbourne Renegades have struggled throughout this season. Conversely, the Adelaide Strikers have consistently performed better and are likely to come out on top. It is recommended to bet on the Adelaide Strikers for the win.