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August 19, 2024
The Adelaide Strikers are a professional Twenty20 cricket team based in Adelaide, South Australia, competing in the Big Bash League (BBL). The team was established in 2011, replacing the Southern Redbacks, who had played in the now-defunct KFC Twenty20 Big Bash. The Strikers’ home ground is the iconic Adelaide Oval, known for its passionate crowds and historic significance. Recognized by their distinctive cornflower blue uniforms, the Strikers have significantly impacted the league, highlighted by their first BBL title win during the 2017-18 season.
Over the years, the Adelaide Strikers have been home to many talented players who have contributed to their success. These include all-rounders like Johan Botha, Kieron Pollard, and Michael Neser; high-scoring batters such as Travis Head, Chris Lynn, and Mahela Jayawardene; and effective bowlers like Rashid Khan, Peter Siddle, and Ben Laughlin. The team also had reliable wicketkeepers Alex Carey and Tim Ludeman, which was crucial to their game strategy. The depth and quality of the squad have consistently made the Strikers one of the most competitive teams in the BBL.
The Strikers are coached by former Australian cricketer Jason Gillespie and captained by Matthew Short. Under their leadership, the team continues to build on its strong legacy in the league. The Strikers remain a formidable force in the BBL, consistently aiming to add more titles to their record and maintain their status as one of the top teams in Australian domestic cricket.
The Adelaide Strikers were established in 2011 with the Big Bash League (BBL) launch. As part of the league’s formation, teams were given a window from June 30 to July 22, 2011, to sign players and build their rosters. Each team could contract up to 18 players, including two international signings. Michael Klinger, the captain of South Australia, was appointed as the Strikers’ inaugural captain. At the same time, Darren Berry, the then-coach of the Southern Redbacks, was named their first coach.
During the 2016-17 BBL season, the Adelaide Strikers gained recognition as the most entertaining team in the league, achieving a BBL Entertainment Index (BBEI) score of 2177. This reflected their dynamic and exciting play style, making them a fan favorite in the competition.
Since the 2013-14 season (BBL03), Cricket Australia has traditionally hosted an Adelaide Strikers home match on December 31st. Known as the New Year’s Eve Match or NYE Clash, this event quickly became a fan favorite, drawing large crowds to the Adelaide Oval every year. The Strikers established an impressive record in these matches, winning six consecutive NYE clashes until BBL08. One of the most memorable moments came in BBL03 when Travis Head scored a remarkable century to lead the Strikers to victory against the Sydney Sixers. This performance remains iconic in the history of the BBL.
However, the Strikers’ winning streak on New Year’s Eve ended in BBL09 when they suffered their first defeat in the NYE match, losing to the Sydney Thunder by just three runs. Despite the loss, the NYE Clash remains a highly anticipated event in the BBL calendar, celebrated for its festive atmosphere and thrilling cricket.
Batters: Alex Carey, Travis Head, Adam Hose, Henry Hunt, Thomas Kelly, Chris Lynn, Harry Nielsen, Matthew Short, D’Arcy Short and Jake Weaterald
All-Rounders: James Bazley, Jamie Overton, and Rashid Khan
Bowlers: Wes Agar, Cameron Boyce, Brendan Doggett, Ben Manenti, David Payne, Lloyd Pope, Henry Thornton
The Adelaide Strikers secured a spot in the top 4 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2023 season, showcasing consistent performances throughout the tournament. Their key victories came against formidable teams like the Melbourne Stars and Brisbane Heat. The Strikers’ strong bowling attack, led by standout performances, helped them secure crucial wins, ensuring their place in the playoffs. Despite fierce competition from other top teams like the Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers, the Strikers’ resilience and strategic gameplay enabled them to finish among the top 4, marking another successful season for the franchise.