Big Bash League Team Previews – Hurricanes, Heat & Thunder
As part of our previous Big Bash League (BBL05) Team Preview series, we looked at the Scorchers & Stars, before taking a look at the Strikers, Sixers & Renegades. In this final Big Bash League Team Previews, we will look forward to what’s in store from the Brisbane Heat, Hobart Hurricanes and Sydney Thunder.
Hobart Hurricanes
Hurricanes are the runners-up from the 2013-14 campaign but largely have been under-achievers. This year, they have high hopes after managing to sign Kumar Sangakkara as one of the overseas recruits.
The well-respected Sri Lankan will anchor the Hurricane batting and should receive ample support from George Bailey, Ben Dunk and Tim Paine. The other overseas player is Darren Sammy who comes with plenty of experience in various leagues and was a fan favorite from last season.
But, bowling is still the achilles heel with Shaun Tait expected to lead the attack. The leg spin of Cameron Boyce could turn out to be the wild card for skipper Paine. However, reaching the semi-finals may still be a tall order for the Hurricanes.
Player to watch: Jonathan Wells
X-Factor: Kumar Sangakkara
Prediction: Will fight to be in top four.
Odds: $9 (Sportsbet)
Brisbane Heat
The winners of the second BBL campaign, the Heat were the laggards of the last season. The loss of Shane Watson to the Sydney Thunder has meant the elevation of Chris Lynn as the captain. Lendl Simmons and Samuel Badree come in as the overseas recruits lending calypso magic to the team.
Batting will depend heavily on the new captain Lynn and Joe Burns – who may have international commitments to juggle with. Veteran all-rounder James Hopes will be very important – both with the bat and ball. They also boast of some young and exciting talent like James Peirson and Mitchell Swepson.
The real question, though, still remains on their capability to challenge the top teams.
Player to watch: Andrew Fekete
X-Factor: Samuel Badree
Prediction: May not be bottom but not above 5th
Odds: $11 (Sportsbet)
Sydney Thunder
The perennial under-achievers of the league with three wooden spoons already in four seasons – Thunder pin their hopes on veterans Mike Hussey and Jacques Kallis. The two veterans are still capable of guiding the team to that elusive final four spot.
Joining them is another veteran, Shane Watson – who was signed in the summer. He is a vastly experienced T20 player and his absence in national squads should bring a more determined Watson. Andre Russell is an explosive player in T20 mode and should be a great addition.
The ingredients are there for Thunder but questions remain on how much they can put that to reality.
Player to watch: Jake Doran
X-Factor: Andre Russell
Prediction: Possible 6th or 7th.
Odds: $12 (Sportsbet)
As we approach the start of the new season, there’s plenty of excitement in store for Big Bash League fans. There’s going to be no shortage of that as fans across the nation, and beyond the shores, eagerly awaiting the first ball of BBL05!
