Munro Doubtful for Heat Opener, Stars Make Changes
Brisbane Heat's title defense in the Big Bash League (BBL) faces an early hurdle as several key players are unavailable for their season opener against Melbourne Stars on Wednesday, December 18th at the MCG(Melbourne Cricket Ground).
Heat's Captaincy and Playing XI in Flux
Marquee overseas signing Colin Munro, who is also the Heat's stand-in skipper for the match, is battling hamstring tightness and a late fitness test will determine his participation. Mitchell Swepson is likely to lead the team if Munro is ruled out. Regular skipper Usman Khawaja and vice-captain Nathan McSweeney are away on Test duty.
Heat Bolster Squad with Replacements
To compensate for the absences, the Heat have brought in South Australian batter Daniel Drew and young Queensland quick Tom Whitney as local replacement players. Both are named in the 14-man squad for the Stars clash.
Melbourne Stars Make Changes After Opening Loss
The Stars, who suffered a six-wicket defeat to Perth Scorchers in their opening match, have reshuffled their playing XI. Veteran pacer Peter Siddle and emerging spinner Doug Warren have been replaced by fast bowler Joel Paris and batter Campbell Kellaway. Allrounder Austin Anlezark also makes way for fellow replacement player Blake Macdonald. Hilton Cartwright has recovered from a neck scare and is set to play.
Maxwell's Return on Horizon
Stars' star player Glenn Maxwell remains unavailable but could be back for their next match against Adelaide Strikers. England opener Ben Duckett is also set to join the Stars' squad for that encounter. Joe Clarke will play his final game for the Stars this season against the Heat.
The opening match between Melbourne Stars and Brisbane Heat promises to be an exciting contest despite the injury concerns for the Heat. With both teams looking to bounce back from contrasting results in their first matches, the encounter is sure to be a closely fought battle.