The Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Sixers rivalry ignites Big Bash League (BBL) passion, featuring explosive T20 clashes between Melbourne’s star-studded batting and Sydney’s disciplined all-rounders. This guide covers team histories, key players, head-to-head stats, and the latest results as of January 2026, perfect for fans tracking standings and standout performances in BBL|15.
Melbourne Stars: Club Introduction
Melbourne Stars, based at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), represent Victorian cricket with flair and firepower. Known for aggressive batting lineups, they play home games before packed crowds, chasing BBL glory since inception.
Founding and Ownership
Founded in 2011 ahead of BBL|01 as one of eight franchises, owned by Cricket Victoria. No single owner; operated as a state cricket board entity with private sponsorships (e.g., KFC, Rebel Sport).
Main Players and Standouts
Key squad (BBL|15):
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Marcus Stoinis (all-rounder, captain, explosive batter/bowler)
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Sam Harper (wicketkeeper-batsman, aggressive opener)
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Glenn Maxwell (all-rounder, big-hitter when fit)
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Haris Rauf (pace bowler, yorker specialist)
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Goalkeeper equivalent: Harper behind stumps; Stoinis best overall for match-winning impact (e.g., 33 runs + wickets in recent derby).
Stoinis leads as the standout for leadership and all-phase contributions.
Sydney Sixers: Club Introduction
Sydney Sixers, New South Wales’ pride, dominate from the SCG with a balanced squad excelling in chases and death bowling. Three-time BBL champions (2010, 2011, 2020), they embody Sydney’s clinical edge.
Founding and Ownership
Launched 2011 for BBL|01, owned by New South Wales Cricket. Fan-owned model via Cricket NSW, with corporate backing.
Main Players and Standouts
Current stars:
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Moises Henriques (captain, all-rounder)
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Josh Philippe (wicketkeeper-batsman, consistent anchor)
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Jordan Silk (batsman, middle-order rock)
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Ben Dwarshuis (left-arm pacer, death specialist)
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Sean Abbott (seamer, powerplay threat)
Dwarshuis shines brightest recently (4/13 vs Stars).
Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Sixers: Head-to-Head History
First BBL clash: December 2011 (Sixers won by 7 wickets). Across 30+ meetings, Sixers lead slightly with 17 wins to Stars’ 13, tight margins defining electric encounters.
Historical Comparison
| Metric | Melbourne Stars | Sydney Sixers |
|---|---|---|
| Total Wins | 13 | 17 |
| Highest Total | 226/4 (2019) | 209/5 (2015) |
| Average Score | 165 | 162 |
| Win % Chasing | 55% | 62% |
| Biggest Win | 62 runs (2015) | 8 wkts (2020) [conversation_history] |
Sixers edge trophies (3 titles vs Stars’ 0); Stars hold home advantage at MCG.
Recent Form (BBL|15, Jan 2026)
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Latest Match (Jan 8, 2026, MCG): Sixers won by 6 wickets (Stars 128 all out; Sixers 132/4 in 17 overs). Dwarshuis (4/13), Edwards (3/27) crushed Stars’ collapse from 43/0 to 128.
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Sixers: 3 straight wins; Stars: 3 losses. Both on 8 points, Stars 3rd, Sixers 4th.
Player Comparison Table
| Player (Stars) | Role / Stats (BBL 15) | Player (Sixers) | Role / Stats (BBL 15) | Edge To |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marcus Stoinis | All-rounder: 33 runs, 2 wickets vs Sixers | Ben Dwarshuis | Pacer: 4/13 vs Stars | Sixers |
| Sam Harper | Opener: Consistent 20+ scores | Josh Philippe | WK-Bat: 35* match-winning chase | Sixers |
| Glenn Maxwell | Big-hitter: 150+ strike rate | Moises Henriques | Captain / All-rounder: Anchors innings | Stars |
| Haris Rauf | Death bowler: 140 kph yorkers | Sean Abbott | Powerplay bowler: Early wickets | Even |
| Campbell Kellaway | Young batter: Top-order promise | Jordan Silk | Middle-order: 40* partnership builder | Sixers |
Sixers’ bowlers dominate recent derbies; Stars need batting revival.
Recent Match Results and Key Stats
| Date | Result | Venue | Stars Score | Sixers Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 8, 2026 | Sixers won by 6 wkts | MCG | 128 (19.5 ov) | 132/4 (17 ov) |
| Jan 2025 | Stars won by 15 runs | SCG | 167/5 | 152 |
| Dec 2024 | Sixers won by 4 wkts | MCG | 180/6 | 181/6 |
Sixers unbeaten in last 3; Stars struggle vs left-arm pace.
Why This Rivalry Thrills
Stars’ firepower vs Sixers’ smarts creates T20 fireworks—MCG crowds love Stoinis-Maxwell vs Dwarshuis-Abbott battles. Upcoming rematch could shift ladder tops.
FAQs About Melbourne Stars vs Sydney Sixers
When was Melbourne Stars founded?
2011 for BBL|01, owned by Cricket Victoria.
Who won the latest Stars vs Sixers match?
Sydney Sixers by 6 wickets on Jan 8, 2026 at MCG (Stars 128; Sixers 132/4).
Who is Melbourne Stars’ best player?
Marcus Stoinis, all-round captain with clutch performances.
Sydney Sixers’ top bowler this season?
Ben Dwarshuis (4/13 in derby, leading wickets).
Head-to-head record?
Sixers lead 17-13; even in chases.
Where do Stars play home games?
Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), capacity 100,000+.
