Perth Scorchers vs Melbourne Stars Women Prediction & Preview – WBBL 2025 Knockout

Perth Scorchers Women take on Melbourne Stars Women at the W.A.C.A. Ground in the Women’s Big Bash League 2025 Knockout, with a place in the Challenger at stake.

The Scorchers started the season slowly but have found form at the right time, beating Brisbane Heat Women by seven wickets in their last match, and they have a strong record at home. Beth Mooney scored a match-winning knock last time and opens with Katie Mack. Maddy Drake, Sophie Devine and Freya Kemp are in good form in the middle order, and Paige Scholfield, Alana King and Chloe Ainsworth can add late runs. Devine and Ainsworth are expected to attack with the new ball, while King and Ruby Strange, who conceded too many against Brisbane, must tighten up, with Lilly Mills and Amy Edgar in support.

The Stars are in a must-win situation. Their form has dipped at a critical time, and they lost their last game to Sydney Thunder Women by nine wickets. Meg Lanning, their leading run-scorer, opens with Rhys McKenna, with captain Annabel Sutherland, Danielle Gibson and Maia Bouchier in the middle order and Amy Jones and Kim Garth tasked with steadying the later innings. Sutherland and Garth are expected to open the bowling, with McKenna and Sophie Day controlling the middle overs and Maisy Gibson supporting.

Given form and home advantage, we pick the Scorchers.

Probable playing XI

Pitch report

The W.A.C.A. Ground gives true bounce and consistent pace, which suits aggressive stroke play. Quick bowlers can use the extra bounce early, the pitch flattens as the innings goes on, and spinners may get some help in the middle overs. A fast outfield rewards strong opening partnerships and good control through the middle overs.

Expected scores

• 1st innings: 145–165
• 2nd innings: 135–155

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