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.
Sydney ThunderÂ
Captain:Â David Warner
Coach:Â Trevor Bayliss
BBL13 Finish:Â 8th Place
The Sydney Thunder had an extremely disappointing season in BBL14, managing to only get a singular win and finishing bottom of the table as a result.
Perhaps having the most impressive recruitment drive in the off-season, the Thunder have brought in international stars, Sam Billings (Heat), Lockie Ferguson (New Zealand), and Sherfane Rutherford (West Indies) as well as seasoned Big Bash players, Wes Agar (Strikers) and Nic Maddinson (Renegades) joining the pack. With the majority of players in fantastic domestic form, it's hard not to see the Thunder in finals contention.
Key Player:Â David Warner
Captaining the side, David Warner will look to play his first full Big Bash season with no international commitments to worry about. His presence within the T20 arena will be invaluable for a Thunder side mixed with youth and experience.
Player to Watch:Â Sam Konstas
Perhaps the most talked about young player in Australia, Konstas will likely feature throughout the BBL season alongside David Warner at the top of the order. Having experienced immediate success for NSW in the long format, fans will be intrigued to see how well Konstas adapts to the T20 format.
Predicted Lineup:Â
- David Warner
- Sam Konstas
- Cameron Bancroft
- Sam Billings (wk)
- Ollie Davies
- Jason Sangha
- Daniel Sams
- Chris Green
- Lockie Ferguson
- Wes Agar
- Tanveer Sangha
Other Players: Matt Gilkes, Ryan Hadley, Liam Hatcher, Nic Maddinson (injured), Nathan McAndrew, Sherfane Rutherford (West Indies, Round 3) Will Salzmann (injured)
Predicted Finish: Champions
