The Melbourne Stars have qualified for the semi-finals of the KFC T20 Big Bash League thanks to their Commonwealth Bank Bushrangers contingent.

Despite a slow start to the Stars' campaign, the MCG-based outfit advanced to a meeting with the Perth Scorchers last night courtesy of a six wicket victory with seven balls remaining over the Adelaide Strikers.

The Stars and the Scorchers will clash from 8pm tomorrow, while the Hobart Hurricanes will host the Sydney Sixers from 7pm on Sunday for a berth in the final and automatic qualification for the lucrative Champions League.

Having recruited the leadership model of coach Greg Shipperd and skipper Cameron White, who in six seasons for the Bushrangers united to claim four titles from five finals, the pair continued their golden partnership in the Twenty20 arena by advancing to a sudden death semi-final at the WACA.

With victory at the MCG last night assuring the Stars of their advancement, the hosts were provided first use of the ball after the Strikers surprisingly opted to bat first after winning the toss.

The Strikers would live to regret their decision as they were bundled all out for just 125 thanks to a sublime display from Clint McKay, who captured 3-17 from his quota of overs.

Dave Hussey (2-30) provided solid support with the ball before carrying his side home with an unbeaten 41 from 36 balls, while White (28 from 30 balls) was invaluable batting alongside him after the Stars had slumped to 3-38 inside seven overs.

McKay said the Stars, who will enter their semi-final on a three-win streak, were peaking at the right time.

"If we go out there and play our best cricket there's no doubt we're going to play in the final the week after," he said.

"We keep talking about the perfect game and that sort of stuff and I still don't think we have (put one together).

"There have been games where we've bowled really well and games where we've batted really well. We've never gelled together. Hopefully that comes on Saturday.

"We know we've got a very good side on paper but on paper doesn't mean too much as long as you don't go out and performance to your best.

"We're very confident in the skills we've got and the team we've got lined up from day dot so next test is the big one isn't it?"

20 JANUARY, 2012