The new-look BBL will kick off this Thursday with a condensed 40-game regular season as teams face challenges in retaining marquee talent. Here’s a look at how each team is shaping up:
Brisbane Heat
The Heat’s squad includes players like Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne, who are expected to miss many games due to Test commitments. Their batting lineup has plenty of firepower, but availability could be a problem for several players. Nathan McSweeney, who had a strong season in the Sheffield Shield and Marsh Cup, is a player to watch. Heat will face challenges at the start of the season without several key players due to Test duties.
Adelaide Strikers
The Strikers retained Rashid Khan with their first pick but will miss him due to a back injury. They’ll also feel the absence of Alex Carey and Travis Head, who will be mostly unavailable due to Test duties. However, they’ve added James Bazley and Brendan Doggett to their pace attack, while Jamie Overton brings big-hitting ability to the middle-order. Matthew Short, who shone in the previous season, is a player to watch for the Strikers.
Hobart Hurricanes
The Hurricanes were strategic in their draft picks, adding players like Chris Jordan, Sam Hain, and Corey Anderson to fill gaps in their lineup. Their batting depth and balanced attack, led by Nathan Ellis, will be key strengths. Ellis, the new captain, will have a challenge leading the team’s bowling unit. With a powerful and versatile group of batters and experienced bowlers, Hurricanes are shaping up to be a strong contender in the upcoming season.
Part two will be published on Wednesday.
