VIC vs QLD Preview: Victoria Eyeing to Consolidate Top Spot Against Struggling Queensland

Match Details:

• Match Start Time: December 5, 2024, 23:30 GMT
• Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground
• Competition: Sheffield Shield 2024

Head-to-Head:
The two teams have a rich history of rivalry, with Victoria dominating the recent encounters. In their last meeting, Victoria thrashed Queensland by 90 runs, with Sam Elliott and Todd Murphy starring with the ball.

Team Form:
Victoria are currently sitting atop the Sheffield Shield table, four points clear of Western Australia. They have been in impressive form, with their batsmen firing consistently and their bowlers delivering crucial breakthroughs. On the other hand, Queensland are struggling at the bottom of the table, still searching for their first win in five games.

Key Players:

• Victoria: Peter Handscomb, Marcus Harris, and Matt Short have been in excellent form with the bat, while Fergus O'Neill, Todd Murphy, and Sam Elliott have been among the wickets.
• Queensland: Ben McDermott and Jack Clayton have been the standout performers for the Bulls, but they need more contributions from the rest of the team to challenge Victoria.

Pitch and Conditions:
The Melbourne Cricket Ground is known for its even surface, which tends to favor batsmen. However, the Victorians have a strong bowling attack that can exploit any conditions. With the game starting late in the evening, the dew factor might come into play, making it challenging for the bowlers.

Prediction:
Victoria are clear favorites to win this encounter, given their recent form and the struggling Queensland team. However, the Bulls will be desperate to turn their fortunes around and might just spring a surprise. Expect a competitive game, but Victoria's dominant bowling attack should give them the edge.

Score Prediction:
Victoria 350+, Queensland 250-300

Recommended Fantasy Picks:

• Batters: Peter Handscomb, Marcus Harris, Ben McDermott
• Bowlers: Fergus O'Neill, Todd Murphy, Sam Elliott
• All-rounders: Matt Short, Jack Clayton