The new season of Big Bash League (BBL05) is just around the corner. We have already had a look at the BBL05 squads and how the teams stack up and now we move on to look at the most interesting players this season. These players are potential match winners. They have the X-factor! These guys are the reason why the Big Bash League is so popular.
Chris Gayle
The calypso king is one of the biggest names in T20 format, wherever he goes. His influence is such that he can single-handedly lead a side to the top of the mountain. This is exactly what the Melbourne Renegades will be looking for in the new season. Watch out for booming sixes from his blade – he’s closing 600 career sixes in T20s. No ground is too big to stop him and no attack is sharp enough to contain him when he’s at his murderous best.
Kevin Pietersen
Another big draw, KP is as prolific with the bat as is he with his words. Always a man to stay in limelight, his time away from the England national squad should provide more reason to strike gold with Melbourne Stars. His form has been sublime in other T20 leagues around the world, so expect big things this summer from Pietersen!
Glenn Maxwell
The ‘Big Show’ is someone with all the shots in the kitty. He can improvise and infuriate in the same shot! His inconsistencies spark much frustration from fans but at his best, players of his potential are rare to find. He’s one of the most dangerous batsmen in the world, and a true triple threat with handy off-spin and superb fielding skills. With KP alongside him, it could be a nightmare for many teams facing the Stars. Watch out for his strong sixes in the midwicket region.
Kumar Sangakkara
The Hobart Hurricanes pulled off a coup by landing this seasoned Sri Lankan stylish veteran. Having experienced many leagues across the globe, he is still at the peak of his abilities. And, he will have more time to devote to his new team, having retired from international duty. Watch out for his surgical nudges and the razor sharp shimmies down the track.
Brad Hogg
It is hard to keep this exciting chinaman bowler out of the game! Almost 45 years of age, there is no shortage of enthusiasm and guile from this veteran. He has already set many tongues wagging with his exploits in IPL and would be eager to show his tricks with Perth Scorchers. Watch out for his wrong‘un because that’s one of the best in the business which bamboozles even the most experienced!
There are many others to keep an eye during BBL05 including veterans Michael Klinger, Jacques Kallis and Johan Botha as well as talented youngsters like Adam Zampa, James Peirson and Jake Doran.
This BBL season promises to be full of entertainment and we can’t wait for it to all get underway on December 17th.