BBL 2025-26, Match 11 Review: Harper, Curran, Siddle extend Stars' unbeaten run

Melbourne Stars extended their dominance in the 2025-26 Big Bash League, recording a seven-wicket victory over Sydney Sixers in Match 11 at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Sam Harper was the star of the show, with his stellar century headlining his team’s clinIcal victory.

After winning the toss, Stars skipper Marcus Stoinis elected to field. The Sixers struggled to find momentum despite opener Daniel Hughes’ 42-ball 60. The Sixers lost Babar Azam for just two while the other batters failed to convert their starts into a score of substance, even as Hughes held an end up.

Peter Siddle led the charge with the ball, claiming figures of 3 for 23. He was in contention of bagging a hat-trick, but Jonathan Merlo grassed a tough chance at point to deny Siddle. Siddle was well assisted by Tom Curran, who picked up three wickets of his own for 26 runs, including top-scorer Hughes’ scalp, as the Sixers were eventually kept to an under-par 144.

Out to chase a modest total, the Stars did not make an ideal start, losing Joe Clarke for a silver duck. However, Harper stood undeterred at the other end, notching up his half-century off just 28 balls, and reaching his maiden BBL hundred in just 50 deliveries. He ended up unbeaten on 110 off 60 balls, smashing 12 boundaries and six sixes and scoring over 75% of his team’s total.

He got brief support from Campbell Kellaway and Jonathan Merlo, but Harper kept matters in his hands right from the outset, carrying his bat to see Stars through in the chase in just 17.3 overs, with 15 balls to spare.

This was Melbourne Stars’ third win in as many matches, and they lead the points tally standings with six points to their name. Meanwhile, the Sydney Sixers are placed third with a solitary win and two losses in four games.