Stars vs Heat BBL10 betting odds, tips & value bets

Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat BBL betting preview

The Big Bash League’s best team on paper will begin their campaign this Friday night when the Melbourne Stars and Brisbane Heat clash at Manuka Oval.

Most online bookmakers and punters agree the Stars will set the bar for the competition this season, as they have built an extremely potent side when it comes to both the bat and ball.

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Chris Lynn and the Heat will look to take advantage of the neutral venue and kick off their Big Bash season with an underdog win over the title favourites.

Brisbane won their last clash with Melbourne by 71 runs in a memorable night for the squad, so they will be hoping for a repeat of that effort in the capital this week.

Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat BBL top batsman tips

Luck was on Glenn Maxwell’s side in Australia’s recent T20 victory over India, where he made a quick half-century after some questionable moments. Even though the Victorian star was dropped a couple of times in the field, he still hit some massive boundaries with his unorthodox style, including a stunning reverse-sweep highlight. Maxwell made 83 off 39 against the Heat early last season and should explode again on the back of his recent form.

Since Tom Banton has withdrawn from BBL10 altogether due to so-called ‘bubble fatigue’, another opener needs to step up for the Heat this season. Max Bryant has shown excellent signs early in his career, but we know the 21-year-old has more to give. Bryant should flex his muscles against the Stars under the lights at Manuka Oval, where he can reach the long boundaries with his raw power.

Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat BBL best wicket-taker betting

In the two BBL matches the Stars played against the Heat last season, Adam Zampa was the most dangerous bowler. Both contests saw the energetic spinner take three wickets, including some big top-order scalps. Zampa is coming off a strong performance against India to close out Australia’s T20i series, and he might have some joy on the vast expanses of Manuka Oval if the Heat batters try to take him on.

It can take time for a player to set their feet at a new club, but Morne Morkel has built a strong reputation throughout his 15-year career. The tall seamer has taken 202 wickets in his 181 T20 innings, where his quick pace and awkward angles have proven difficult to attack. The South African should thrive in his new colours and win his teammates’ respect from the first ball.

Melbourne Stars vs Brisbane Heat BBL betting predictions

The squad the Stars have built over the offseason looks very strong, especially with the brilliant Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell leading the way. Watch out for emerging quick Dilbar Hussain, who is coming off some impressive Pakistani Super League form.