Match Preview: Hobart Hurricanes Women vs Melbourne Stars Women – WBBL 2025, Match 32

Date & Time: 1 December 2025, 08:10 GMT (01:40 PM IST / 07:10 PM local time)
Venue: Bellerive Oval, Hobart
Competition: Women’s Big Bash League 2025

Match Overview

As the 2025 edition of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) enters its final stretch, the 32nd match promises a thrilling contest between the Hobart Hurricanes Women and the Melbourne Stars Women. This high-stakes encounter at the Bellerive Oval could have significant implications for both teams' playoff aspirations.

The Hurricanes, currently sitting near the top of the table with a strong record, will be eager to capitalize on home advantage and continue their winning momentum. The Stars, on the other hand, are in solid form themselves and will be looking to bounce back and secure a crucial victory in their bid to make the finals.

Team Form & Key Players

Hobart Hurricanes Women

The Hobart Hurricanes have shown consistent performances this season, backed by a balanced squad and strong leadership. Their recent win against the Perth Scorchers highlighted the form of key players like Nat Sciver-Brunt, who scored an explosive 81 off just 48 balls. The all-rounder Molly Strano has also been instrumental with the ball, taking 2 crucial wickets at an economy of 7.67 in their last match.

The Hurricanes' captain Elyse Villani will look to lead from the front, with the likes of Lizelle Lee and Danielle Wyatt Hodge expected to play pivotal roles in the middle order. With a mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talents, the Hurricanes are a well-rounded team capable of adapting to different conditions.

Melbourne Stars Women

The Melbourne Stars have been in fine form this season, with a balanced attack and a strong batting lineup. Their recent 45-run victory over the Melbourne Renegades showcased the brilliance of captain Annabel Sutherland, who led from the front. Meg Lanning has been in excellent touch, scoring a composed 73 off 58 balls with 7 fours and a six. The pace duo of Maisy Gibson and Kim Garth has been particularly effective, with Gibson taking 3 wickets at an impressive economy of 6.80.

The Stars have a well-rounded team with contributions from all departments. With the likes of Marizanne Kapp and Rhys McKenna providing stability in the middle order, they are capable of chasing down any target.

Head-to-Head Record

This will be the 13th meeting between the two sides in WBBL history, with the Hobart Hurricanes having the slight edge in head-to-head encounters:

• Matches Played: 12
• Hobart Hurricanes Women Wins: 6
• Melbourne Stars Women Wins: 5
• No Result: 1

The closely contested nature of these matches adds an extra layer of excitement to this encounter, as both teams are eager to come out on top.

Pitch & Weather Conditions

The Bellerive Oval pitch is known for being relatively balanced, offering assistance to both pace and spin. However, the overcast conditions and a 35% chance of rain could add a bit of swing and seam movement, making batting a challenge. With an average first-innings score of around 149, chasing might be the preferred option on the day.

Weather Forecast:

• Temperature: ~11°C
• Conditions: Overcast, possibility of rain

Toss Prediction & Match Strategy

It is expected that Annabel Sutherland will win the toss for the Melbourne Stars and elect to bowl first, given the likely assistance on offer. This would allow the Stars to exploit the conditions and build pressure early on.

The Hobart Hurricanes will aim to post a competitive total, relying on their explosive openers and middle-order firepower. The Stars, in response, will look to build strong partnerships and rotate the strike effectively to reach the target.

Player Battles to Watch

• Nat Sciver-Brunt (HHW) vs Kim Garth (MSW): The all-rounder vs the pace spearhead – a battle of aggressive batting and sharp deliveries.
• Meg Lanning (MSW) vs Molly Strano (HHW): A battle of two key all-rounders, both capable of turning the match in their team's favor.
• Lizelle Lee (HHW) vs Maisy Gibson (MSW): The experienced wicketkeeper vs the aggressive pacer – a crucial battle in the middle overs.

Final Verdict & Prediction

Both teams are in good form and have the firepower to win. However, with the home advantage and the potential assistance on offer, the Hobart Hurricanes are slight favorites to emerge victorious in this high-stakes clash. A total in the high 150s could be the key, with the Hurricanes' batting depth providing the edge.

Prediction:
Hobart Hurricanes Women to win by 6-8 runs.

Probable Playing XI

Hobart Hurricanes Women (11):

1. Danielle Wyatt Hodge
2. Nat Sciver-Brunt
3. Lizelle Lee (wk)
4. Nicola Carey
5. Heather Graham
6. Elyse Villani (c)
7. Rachel Trenaman
8. Hayley Silver-Holmes
9. Molly Strano
10. Linsey Smith
11. Lauren Smith

Melbourne Stars Women (11):

1. Meg Lanning
2. Rhys McKenna
3. Amy Jones (wk)
4. Annabel Sutherland (c)
5. Marizanne Kapp
6. Danielle Gibson
7. Kim Garth
8. Sasha Moloney
9. Georgia Prestwidge
10. Maisy Gibson
11. Sophie Day

Conclusion

This WBBL 2025 clash between the Hobart Hurricanes Women and the Melbourne Stars Women is set to be a thrilling encounter filled with tension, strategy, and high-quality cricket. With both teams in strong form and a competitive pitch, fans can expect a nail-biting contest that could go either way. Don’t miss the action at Bellerive Oval on 1 December 2025!
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