The race for the playoffs is heating up, and every single point counts in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26 season slams into the finals. Match 38 is an exciting game at the Adelaide Oval, where the Adelaide Strikers, the home team of the Adelaide Strikers (ADS) prepare to take on an unpromising Melbourne Renegades (MLR) side. For fantasy cricket app users, this match is an opportunity to mine gold. With the Strikers striving to secure their place in the top four, and the Renegades battling for glory and a mathematical marvel the energy on the field will be sure to be a huge source of fantasy points.
If you’re trying to create the ideal Fantasy team for this afternoon’s match, you’re in the right spot. Adelaide Oval is a must. Adelaide Oval is famous for its real bounce and its short square boundaries, which have traditionally provided the perfect environment for batters and spinners like Rashid Khan in the game. Knowing these rules is the first step towards winning your leagues.
Strikers Surge vs. Renegades Rut
The context is crucial when choosing the Vice-Captain and Captain. The Adelaide Strikers currently sit comfortably at 3rd in the points table with six wins in 10 games. Their form in recent games has been awe-inspiring, particularly in their home stadium, where they’ve transformed the Adelaide Oval into a fortress. With the help of the explosive Matt Short, whose bat has been soaring throughout the season, and also the dazzling skills of Rashid Khan, the Strikers appear to be an efficient machine that is prepared to go for the playoffs.
On the other side of the field The Melbourne Renegades are having a season to forget. In 7th place with just 4 wins their batting line-up is inconsistent, frequently making their bowlers have few options to defend. Yet, T20 cricket is unpredictable. The Renegades have match-winners in the form of Shaun Marsh and Kane Richardson who can turn a game its head on their own. A weak team with no loss can be risky, which makes them a difficult choice to draft your fantasy draft.
Why This Match Matters for Your Team
The forecast for the weather is a scorching day of 32 degrees Celsius and clear skies, which means we’re likely to be playing a full 40-over match without interruptions by rain. Historically, daytime games at Adelaide that are played in the evening are characterized by high scores with the average of the first innings total of 180+. mark. This suggests that stacking your squad with the top batters in your order, and death-over experts, is the best strategy.
In this article, we’ll detail the information you need to ensure you have a winning combination. From the head-tohead records that favor the Strikers (13-9) to the pitch report that shouts “runs,” we have the facts to back our predictions. Keep an eye on us for more as we dig into the most accurate ADS against MLR Dream11 prediction, looking at the players you must have and the most risky differentials that are applicable to Grand Leagues, and the most secure wagers to bet on Small Leagues. Let’s get your team set to take home the big prize.
ADS vs MLR Dream11 Prediction: Match 38 Preview BBL 2026
Get ready for a crucial Big Bash League encounter. Here’s all the crucial information you require to follow the action and create your lineups for fantasy.
- Match: Adelaide Strikers vs Melbourne Renegades, Match 38
- League: BBL 2025-26
- Date: Friday, January 17, 2026
- Time: 11:30 AM IST / 4:30 PM Local Time
- Venue: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
- Live Streaming: Star Sports Network and JioCinema App
Adelaide Oval is widely regarded as one of the top pitches for batting in Australia. It is a true bounce pitch with speed, allowing batters be confident in the pitch and take their shots with ease. The square-shaped boundaries allow for frequent scoring and can lead to high-scoring games. The average score of the first innings is 182, and teams who win the toss typically choose to chase. Teams that chase winning around 65percent of the time. Expect plenty of runs and thrilling stroke play in this vital match.
ADS vs MLR Dream11 Prediction: Head-to-Head Record & Recent Form
Examining historical data and recent performance is crucial to making wise choices for your fantasy team. This section explains how Adelaide Strikers and Melbourne Renegades have performed against each other and in recent games.
Head-to-Head (H2H) Analysis
Historically, Adelaide Strikers have held a distinct advantage over the Melbourne Renegades. In their 22 matches during the Big Bash League, the Strikers have won 13 times, and the Renegades have won 9 times. This trend has persisted, with Adelaide winning the two most recent match-ups between the teams. This advantage in terms of mental strength, particularly in games played at their own ground provides the Strikers with an advantage. The Renegades will require a spectacular performance to overcome this historical dominance.
Recent Form Guide
The current state of both teams tells a tale of two distinct campaigns.
Adelaide Strikers (ADS): W W L W W
The Strikers are in great performance winning in four of their five recent games. Their most recent loss was in a tight match, but they have demonstrated repeatedly that they are a top-four team. Their success is based on a strong batting line-up and a varied bowling attack. Captain Matt Short has been in incredible form, scoring more than 400 runs this season while taking the lead from the front. When it comes to the ball, Rashid Khan has been just as reliable with 15 wickets while directing the middle overs. Their excellent home record at Adelaide Oval makes them a formidable opponent.
Melbourne Renegades (MLR): L L W L L
The Renegades are having a difficult season, having lost four of their five games. The team has been characterized by inconsistent performance on the field. The top line has repeatedly failed to establish an enduring foundation, placing huge pressure on the bowlers in the middle. While they have some talented players however, the team has been unable to come together as a unit. Their batting problems are a major issue heading into a game at a venue that is high scoring like Adelaide Oval, where a lower score is almost impossible to stop.
ADS vs MLR Dream11 Prediction: Squads and Probable Lineups
Making the right choice of players is only half the battle when playing fantasy cricket. Knowing who’s actually playing on the field, and in what order – can determine the fate of the success of your Dream11 team. The Adelaide Strikers enter this match with a largely settled team and the Melbourne Renegades might look to shift their team around to find the winning formula.
This is the full breakdown of the squads as well as our predictions for the XIs to play in Match 38.
Adelaide Strikers (ADS): Team News & Predicted XI
The Strikers have found their winning pattern and are not likely to make any drastic adjustments to a method that has been proven successful, particularly at home. The spotlight is still upon Matt Short, who opens the batting and bowls crucial powerplay overs. His dual roles make him an essential asset.
Rashid Khan remains the X-factor in the bowling department. Even on tracks that are batting friendly His quick arm speed makes it difficult for him to escape. Be on the lookout for Chris Lynn in the middle order. If the top order is laying an underlying, Lynn is the perfect candidate to make the most of the small square boundary of Adelaide Oval.
- Full Squad: Matt Short (c), Travis Head, Chris Lynn, Rashid Khan, Alex Carey, Cameron Boyce, Brendan Doggett, Adam Hose, Henry Hunt, Thomas Kelly, Ben Manenti, Harry Nielsen, Jamie Overton, David Payne, D’Arcy Short, Henry Thornton, Jake Weatherald, Jonathan Wells, Wes Agar.
- Predicted Playing XI:
- Matt Short (c)
- D’Arcy Short
- Chris Lynn
- Jake Weatherald
- Adam Hose
- Jamie Overton
- Harry Nielsen (wk)
- Rashid Khan
- Wes Agar
- Henry Thornton
- David Payne
The Impact Player Strategy Strikers usually employ their depth to substitute for a specialist bowler, if they bat first to replace an upper-order batter who’s performed their job. Watch out for Henry Thornton potentially being swapped for a batter similar to Thomas Kelly depending on the toss.
Melbourne Renegades (MLR): Team News & Predicted XI
The Renegades are in a difficult situation and require their veteran campaigners to perform. Shaun Marsh provides much-needed stability at the top, however the team heavily rely on the speed and power of Jake Fraser-McGurk, a young player. If “JFM” gets going, it could alter the game in just five overs.
The bowling squad will be helmed by Kane Richardson and Tom Rogers. Rogers particularly has been a bright spot in the past with his variations in the dying stages. The biggest concern with MLR is their fragility in the middle order and they require Will Sutherland to fire with bat and ball to help balance the team effectively.
- Full Squad: Nic Maddinson, Aaron Finch, Jake Fraser-McGurk, MacKenzie Harvey, Nathan Lyon, Shaun Marsh, Kane Richardson, Tom Rogers, Peter Siddle, Will Sutherland, Jon Wells, Adam Zampa, Quinton de Kock, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Joe Clarke, Harry Dixon.
- Predicted Playing XI:
- Shaun Marsh
- Jake Fraser-McGurk
- Joe Clarke (wk)
- Nic Maddinson
- Will Sutherland (c)
- Jonathan Wells
- Tom Rogers
- Kane Richardson
- Adam Zampa
- Peter Siddle
- Mujeeb Ur Rahman
A Strategy for the Impact Player: The Renegades may consider bolstering their batting if they are chasing an enormous total. It is possible for MacKenzie Harvey to be a potential impact sub in the event that the top order is shattered early or a spinner such as Mujeeb to be substituted to a hitter when they are trying to defend an unbeatable score.
Key Fantasy Insights: Stick with the top-order batters who are reliable from ADS and the death bowlers from MLR. The Renegades are unable to take wickets in clumps near the end of the season, which means Strikers’ bowlers such as Rashid and Payne are ideal potential candidates to earn wicket points.
ADS vs MLR Dream11 Prediction: Adelaide Oval Pitch and Weather Report
Adelaide Oval is renowned for being among the most batter-friendly venues within the Big Bash League, and this game is expected to be the same. Fantasy managers must be aware that knowing the pitch is essential to predicting the performance of players and earning points.
Pitch Conditions: Adelaide’s surface has a real bounce and a consistent pace, which allows batters to trust the surface and play their shots without fear. Short square boundaries are a key factor, allowing for aggressive strokeplay and resulting in high scores. Expect a lot of running because the pitch provides very little support seam bowlers, particularly playing with a new ball. The average score for the first innings in T20s is around 182, but scores of more than 200 are not uncommon.
For Batters against Bowlers: Batters of the top order who can play the line will do well. Try to build your fantasy squad with the best four players on each side. Although it’s not the most ideal spot for bowlers, players who employ clever strategies can succeed. For example, wrist-spinners like Rashid Khan, often get some grip and then turn in the course of play, which makes them valuable players in middle overs. Death bowlers who are able to execute their yorkers as well as slower balls will be vital in limiting the late-innings assault.
Weather & Toss Impact: The forecast for the weather on game day is hot and clear, with temperatures of 32 degrees Celsius and no chances of rain. This will ensure a long, continuous game. Dew can play a role in the second innings when the evening draws in, and the ball starts to slide across the field, making it more difficult for bowlers to grasp. So, the team that wins the toss will probably decide to start bowling first, hoping to chase an objective under the light. This advantage in chasing is substantial and teams that bat second securing around 70% of matches at this location.
ADS vs MLR Dream11 Prediction: Top Fantasy Picks for Today’s Match
Making an effective Dream11 team for Match 38 requires a strategic combination of top players, savvy differentials, and a keen knowledge of the match conditions at the Adelaide Oval. With a high-scoring match in the near future your success in fantasy will depend on choosing the right bowlers and batters who can perform under pressure. This thorough analysis breaks down the essential players, budget-friendly selections, and risky differentials that can aid you in winning your Small League (SL) and Grand League (GL) contests.
Wicket-Keeper Analysis
The wicket-keeper slot provides the possibility of consistency as well as potential.
- Joe Clarke (MLR): A smooth striker, Joe Clarke comes with the added benefit of batting in the top of the order. When playing on a flat surface like Adelaide, Joe Clarke can score big and fast. He can also contribute important points by catching and stumping. He’s a slightly riskier and higher-reward option than his counterpart.
- Harry Nielsen (ADS): Batting lower in the order, Nielsen’s main value in fantasy comes from his position behind the stumps. Although he is a competent batter, his opportunities are typically limited. He’s a safe and more conservative option for those who need to keep credits in reserve, however his ceiling is less than Clarke’s.
Conclusion: Joe Clarke is the most popular choice due to his top-of-the-line bat position and his potential for explosive power, which makes him a better option to score significant fantasy points.
Batters to Watch
It is here that the game will be decided by the outcome. A good supply of top-of-the-line batters is mandatory at Adelaide Oval.
- Matt Short (ADS): The unavoidable, must-have player for this game. As the tournament’s top run-scorer and a reliable off-spinner who frequently bowls during the powerplay, Short offers unparalleled fantasy value. Short is the most secure and most sensible choice for Captains across all formats.
- Chris Lynn (ADS): A renowned BBL legend with incredible strength, Lynn is tailor-made for the narrow boundaries of Adelaide. As a third batsman He has enough time to rest before unleashing his assault of sixes. The form he has shown in recent times is consistent which makes him a solid choice to be included in your fantasy XI.
- Shaun Marsh (MLR): The veteran anchor of the Renegades. Marsh brings class and experience at the top of the list. Although his team has struggled but he has been consistently a player who has scored runs. If you have a good bat track, he is able to play lengthy innings. He is a solid player to have on your team.
- Jake Fraser-McGurk (MLR) A high-risk, high reward player. “JFM” is a game-changer who can score 40 runs in just 15 balls or even get out with the first ball. His speed and power makes him an ideal candidate for the Grand League captaincy punt. If he is able to keep his momentum and is able to take you to victory.
All-Rounder Selections
All-rounders are the balance that every fantasy team requires they can provide ball and bat.
- Will Sutherland (MLR): As captain of the Renegades, Sutherland has a important role to play both bat and ball. He bats at the middle of the order, and usually bowls his entire quota of four overs, which includes at the end of the innings. His versatility makes him a secure and valuable potential fantasy asset.
- Jamie Overton (ADS): The English import is a great option for Strikers with a shrewd hitting style in the lower mid-middle order, and bowls crucial overs at a fast pace. His ability to cut through the ropes and grab crucial wickets makes him an great fantasy option, particularly in the event that Adelaide bats first.
- D’Arcy Small (ADS) Although he’s not at his peak D’Arcy’s role in the middle of the order with Matt Short cannot be ignored. He can be a key player in the innings and could bowl a wrist-spin that is part-time providing him with multiple ways to score points.
Key Bowlers
In a batting paradise choosing bowlers who can take wickets is crucial. Concentrate on strike bowlers and death-over specialists.
- Rashid Khan (ADS): World-class even on a road. Rashid Khan’s most effective weapon is the pressure he puts on himself that eventually results in wickets. Batters often prefer to let him go, but his googly remains unanswered. He can also contribute with quick runs in the line, which makes him a great Vice-Captain candidate.
- Kane Richardson (MLR): The leader of the Renegades attack, Richardson is an experienced death bowler. He has a knack for taking wickets in the final overs when batters try to speed up. His versatility and knowledge make him an excellent option for those who want to score fantasy points.
- David Payne (ADS): The left-arm seamer has been an impressive player with the Strikers, especially when using the ball that is new and also at the end of the innings. His ability to play the ball and swing his slower shots is a real threat of taking wickets throughout the innings.
- Adam Zampa (MLR): While Adelaide isn’t the most ideal place for a spinner, a bowler of Zampa’s skill can never be dismissed. He is likely to attack the stumps and is a good option against the Strikers’ middle order that could risk his position against Zampa. He’s a good alternative for GLs.
Captain and Vice-Captain Choices
Your choice of C/VC will determine your fate. Here are the most coveted candidates:
| Player | Role | Reason for Selection | Projected Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matt Short (C) | All-Rounder (ADS) | The top scoring player in the tournament opens the batting and bowls crucial overs. It’s a simple choice on a wicket that is bat-friendly. | 120+ |
| Rashid Khan (VC) | Bowler (ADS) | A sure wicket-taker who can be quick to score runs. The high ceiling makes him a secure and efficient VC option. | 90+ |
| Will Sutherland | All-Rounder (MLR) | Bats in middle order and bowls four overs including at the end. The high involvement makes him an excellent C/VC selection. | 85+ |
| J. Fraser-McGurk | Batter (MLR) | A high-risk reward GL captain. If he fails to fire the ball, his strike rate increase will lead to a huge fantasy score. | 20-110 |
Sample Dream11 Fantasy Teams
Here are a few examples of combinations that can help you start.
Team 1: Small League (SL) – Balanced & Safe
This team is based on the most trustworthy players from both sides. crafted to play head-to-head or small games.
- Wicket-Keeper: Joe Clarke
- Batters: Matt Short (c), Chris Lynn, Shaun Marsh
- All-Rounders: Will Sutherland, Jamie Overton, D’Arcy Short
- Bowlers: Rashid Khan (vc), Kane Richardson, David Payne, Henry Thornton
Strategies: A well-balanced team heavily favored by the Strikers who are in good form. Matt Short is the safe captain with Rashid Khan as the reliable vice-captain.
Team 2: Grand League (GL) – High-Risk, High-Reward
This team contains the possibility of making a profit off in big tournaments.
- Wicket-Keeper: Joe Clarke
- Batters: Jake Fraser-McGurk (c), Chris Lynn (vc), Jake Weatherald
- All-Rounders: Will Sutherland, Jamie Overton
- Bowlers: Rashid Khan, Adam Zampa, Kane Richardson, Wes Agar, Peter Siddle
The strategy: This line-up builds on a dynamite start from Jake Fraser-McGurk, who is an alternate captain. Chris Lynn is the VC for his high scoring potential. With Adam Zampa and Peter Siddle makes for a unique bowling combo that could be effective in the event that the middle order of the Strikers is experiencing an off day that is not often.
Match Prediction: Who Will Win Today?
Based on current team’s composition, form and historical information at the Adelaide Oval, the Adelaide Strikers (ADS) begin as the clear favorite to win the match 38.
The Strikers have transformed their home pitch into a fortress in the past season. Their top line-up, anchored by the explosive Matt Short, is perfectly suitable for the batting-friendly conditions as well as the short boundaries. Additionally, their bowling attack, led by Rashid Khan, has the variety needed to take on opponents even on tracks that are flat. However, the Melbourne Renegades have struggled for consistency, especially when it comes to batting. If their top order does not perform collectively, they’ll find it hard to keep up with the Strikers’ score.
The prediction: Adelaide Strikers to win.
Scenario Analysis:
- If ADS Bat First: Expect a score between 200 and 190. Their batting line-up will be looking to capitalize on the conditions in the early.
- If MLR Bat First: Expect a score between 160 and 175. Their vulnerability in the middle overs versus the spin of a high-quality bowler can keep their totals below par.
Toss Factor: The team that won the toss is likely to bowl first. With an average of 65% wins for teams that chase at this location and the possibility of afternoon dew, it is statistically more difficult here.
Bettors who place bets on the Reddy Anna Book can use this knowledge to steer betting, while also maximising returns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the answers to a few common questions regarding the ADS match against the MLR BBL match and Dream11 fantasy tips.
1. Who is the best captain choice for the ADS vs MLR Dream11 match today?
Matt Short is the standout captain of this match. He starts the bat, is in fantastic form, and is often bowling crucial overs. His versatility gives him the best chance to earn fantasy points, which makes him a secure and efficient captain in both Small as well as Grand Leagues.
2. What is the Adelaide Oval pitch report for today’s match?
The Adelaide Oval pitch is a cricketing paradise. It has a true bounce and shorter square boundaries, which can lead to high-scoring games. The first-innings average score is about 182. Bowlers who have clever strategies, such as wrist-spinners and death-over specialists are the most effective.
3. Who will win today’s BBL match between Adelaide Strikers and Melbourne Renegades?
The Adelaide Strikers (ADS) are the clear favourites to be victorious. They have a strong run of form in recent times as well as a dominating Head-to-Head record against the Renegades, and they play at their home stadium, which is the best in the world. Melbourne’s inconsistent batting has them underdogs.
4. What are some must-have players for the ADS vs MLR Dream11 team?
To create a balanced fantasy squad The players you should have consist of Matt Short (ADS), Rashid Khan (ADS), Will Sutherland (MLR), and Shaun Marsh (MLR). These players are highly involved in the game, whether it’s bowling, batting or both, and will guarantee an ongoing flow of points.
5. Which players are good differential picks for a Grand League team?
To play the Grand Leagues, consider risky but high-reward players such as Jake Fraser-McGurk (MLR) for his dazzling bat. Bowlers such as Adam Zampa (MLR) or Wes Agar (ADS) can also be excellent differentials if they can put together a impressive performance against the run of play.
6. What are the predicted playing XIs for ADS vs MLR?
ADS Predicted XI: Matt Short (c), D’Arcy Short, Chris Lynn, Jake Weatherald, Adam Hose, Jamie Overton, Harry Nielsen (wk), Rashid Khan, Wes Agar, Henry Thornton, David Payne.
MLR Predicted XI: Shaun Marsh, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Joe Clarke (wk), Nic Maddinson, Will Sutherland (c), Jonathan Wells, Tom Rogers, Kane Richardson, Adam Zampa, Peter Siddle, Mujeeb Ur Rahman.
7. Where can I watch the ADS vs MLR BBL match live?
The game will be streamed live on Star Sports Network in India. You can also stream the match live via the JioCinema app and on the JioCinema website.
8. What is the head-to-head record between ADS and MLR?
Adelaide Strikers have a significant advantage in head-to-head matches with 13 wins out of the 22 games that they have played against the Melbourne Renegades, who have won 9. The Strikers have also swept the two games between the two teams.
9. Should I pick more batters or bowlers for my Dream11 team?
With the conditions that favor batting at the Adelaide Oval, it is sensible to fill your team with top-order batters from both teams. But don’t forget the wicket-taking bowlers, especially wrist spinners and death-over specialists such as Rashid Khan and Kane Richardson, who can earn significant points.
10. What is the impact of the toss on the match outcome?
The toss is a crucial part of the game for the game at Adelaide Oval. Teams who win the toss will be expected to bowl first, since teams who chased have won about 65percent of the games in this venue. Dew is also an issue during the second inning, making batters’ lives easier, but difficult for bowlers.