The 14th edition of the Big Bash League commences on December 15th when the five-time champions the Perth Scorchers face off against the Melbourne Stars in Perth.
Eight teams will face off against each other across 40 games, followed by a finals series concluding on January 27.
There are plenty of new faces in different colours this season. The Melbourne Stars have recruited experienced players, Tom Curran, Ben Duckett and even 40-year old Peter Siddle. Last year's team at the bottom of the ladder Sydney Thunder, have rejuvinated their squad with star international signings Lockie Ferguson and Sam Billings, with David Warner leading the star-studded team as their new captain. Whilst reigning champion - and former Heat cult hero - Josh Brown moves down to Melbourne, hoping to add some spark at the top of the order for the Renegades.
Follow along as this full season guide will have you sorted for all your essential Big Bash League needs for the upcoming season.
Adelaide Strikersย
Captain:ย Matthew Short
Coach:ย Tim Paine
BBL13 Finish: (4th Place) Lost in the Challenger
Coming off the back of a loss in the penultimate final, Adelaide Strikers will be looking to go one further and book a spot in the Big Final.
Signings like England's Ollie Pope and West Indies all-rounder Fabian Allen, along with Big Bash veterans Chris Lynn and Matt Short, the team in blue boast a strong batting lineup.
Despite losing Wes Agar and Ben Manenti, their combination of experience and youth positions them as title contenders. Perhaps their biggest challenge will be managing the availability of their international stars, with Ollie Pope, Travis Head and Alex Carey all potentially being called up for Test & ODI commitments.
Following a commendable BBL|13, the Strikers look well-suited to compete for their second championship this season.
Key Player:ย Matthew Short
In BBL|13, Short was the second-highest run-scorer with over 450 runs, winning his second player of the tournament honour. He looks poised to be a game-changer once again in this season.
Player to Watch: Lloyd Pope
Pope has displayed pieces of brilliance with his leg-spin in the past and recently, his performances in domestic cricket have showcased his maturity as a player. None more so than his 6/74 figures for South Australia against Victoria in shield cricket last month.
Predicted Lineup:ย
- Matthew Short (c)
- D'Arcy Short
- Chris Lynn
- Ollie Pope (wk)
- Jake Weatherald
- Jamie Overton
- Fabian Allen
- Brendan Doggett
- Henry Thornton
- Jordan Buckingham
- Lloyd Pope
Other Players: James Bazley, Cameron Boyce, Alex Carey (Test Series), Travis Head (Test Series), Thomas Kelly, Harry Nielsen, Alex Ross
Predicted Finish: Runners-Up
