Can Melbourne Stars break BBL curse?

The Melbourne Stars remain one of the most talked about franchises in the BBL, with their poor record in the competition often a key debate. 
 
Having lost out on the final on three occasions, there was hope amongst punters and online betting sites that they could come good in BBL 13. 
 
However, they have endured a poor start to the 2023/24 campaign. 

Stars not shining 

Why the Melbourne Stars have never been able to have a meaningful impact on the Big Bash is a mystery for many cricket pundits and experts. 
 
They have regularly assembled an exciting squad but when it comes to getting the BBL trophy in the cabinet, the wait goes on. 
 
Reaching the final in 2016, 2019 and 2020 promised to be false dawns for the Stars and their start to BBL 13 has been very underwhelming. 

Two thrashings from two games 

Losing two games to the likes of Brisbane Heat and the Perth Scorchers is hardly cause for concern for Melbourne Stars and their fans. 
 
However, the manner of those defeats has been hugely worrying for all connected to the franchise and there is a feeling that it could be another forgettable campaign. 
 
Conceding over 200 runs in their opening game to Brisbane Heat and not getting within a 100 of the target was a disappointing opener. 
 
Their next defeat to Perth Scorchers was equally as comprehensive, a 7-wicket loss and there clearly is trouble within the camp. 

Can the stars turn it around? 

One of the only saving graces for the Melbourne Stars is that there is plenty of cricket to be played in BBL 13 and they aren’t being written off by many betting apps. 
 
Optimists will say that losing to both Perth Scorchers and Brisbane Heat is hardly a disaster, with both sides expected to push on this season and challenge for BBL glory. 
 
The next games following the Test Match break will be key for Melbourne Stars, especially if they are to reach the semi-finals. 
 
All is not lost for the Melbourne Stars in BBL 13 but if past seasons are anything to go by, this current bunch would have to buck the trend to bring glory to the Melbourne Stars franchise.