The Melbourne Stars’ ongoing search for a Big Bash League (BBL) title is weighing heavily on Glenn Maxwell, who admits that the thought of their enduring drought keeps him awake at night. Reflecting on the team’s struggles during a recent appearance on the Surge Podcast, Maxwell expressed his deep desire to finally bring home the coveted trophy that has eluded them since the league’s inception.
The Stars have had a storied existence in the BBL, boasting ten finals appearances, including two minor premierships and three trips to the grand final. Yet, remarkably, they remain the only franchise to never secure a BBL championship. A disheartening success rate of just 23% in finals, with only three wins from 13 matches, highlights their difficulties in clinching critical games.
As the Stars prepare for a decisive knockout match against reigning champions Hobart Hurricanes at Bellerive Oval, Maxwell, who has been a core part of the Stars since 2012, is determined to change their fortune. He feels an immense sense of gratitude towards the franchise and its supporters and hopes to give them the memorable moment they deserve.
The club’s past is filled with high expectations but has been marred by repeated disappointments. From their domination in the league’s early years to infamous collapses in critical matches, the Stars have become synonymous with near-misses. A particularly painful memory remains their 2019 final against the Renegades, where they squandered a promising position and ultimately lost, leading Shane Warne to label the team as ‘chokers.’
After struggling to regain their form in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Stars have shown signs of revival under new coach Peter Moores. After a rough start to the 2024/25 season, they rallied to secure a finals spot, demonstrating resilience and potential for the current campaign. This season had a bright beginning with four consecutive victories, including a notable win against the Hurricanes, reviving hopes for the long-awaited title.
One standout player has been wicketkeeper Sam Harper, who recently scored an unbeaten century against the Sydney Sixers, illustrating the renewed vigor within the team. Meanwhile, the bowling unit, featuring experienced players like Peter Siddle and Haris Rauf, has consistently proven effective, helping establish a formidable defense.
However, the team faces challenges, particularly with Maxwell’s inconsistent performance as he navigates a difficult stretch. Despite his struggles, both he and the coaching staff remain optimistic that he can turn things around when it matters most.
As the Stars prepare to take on the Hurricanes, they recognize the need for a strong performance to keep their championship aspirations alive. Though the journey ahead is steep, the team is fueled by the hope of finally breaking their title drought, a dream that has lingered too long for Maxwell and the loyal fan base that has stood by them throughout the years. The knockout match is set for Wednesday evening, and the team’s confidence is strong as they look to capitalize on their recent momentum, potentially leading them to a successful run in this year’s BBL finals.