2024-25 Big Bash League Preview: Melbourne Renegades

As the 14th edition of Australia’s Big Bash League draws ever closer, we’re previewing the tournament by analysing all eight squads in depth.

This piece sees us focus on a side looking to substantially improve on their lowly finish last season and follow up the maidan triumph of their WBBL team, the Melbourne Renegades.

Captain: Will Sutherland

Head Coach: Cameron White

Confirmed Overseas Players: Jacob Bethell (ENG), Laurie Evans (ENG), Tim Seifert (NZ)

Last Season: 7th place

Betting Analysis: Batting

When it comes to reliable BBL run-scorers, Laurie Evans has wound up being one of the best overseas pickups. Brilliant for Perth Scorchers, the Renegades have pulled off a very smart bit of business signing him in the draft and Evans is expected to slot straight into this Gades top order. Another big move has been the addition of Josh Brown, the second highest run-scorer of last season’s competition.

Laurie Evans isn’t the only English asset set to appear in red this BBL 14. Jacob Bethell has made a glittering start to his Test career and the England international will get the opportunity to light up the BBL when he joins the Renegades following that series. Bethell’s aggressive, yet stylish batting technique could see him thrive on the BBL pitches in Australia. The thought of Bethell sharing the crease with Jake Fraser-McGurk is an enthralling one.

Betting Analysis: Bowling

All-rounder and captain Will Sutherland will have plenty of bowlers to call upon as he aims to spread his resources. His own right-arm pace is well suited to bouncy surfaces when considering Sutherland’s height, whilst Fergus O’Neill is a quick bowler that bettors would be wise to keep a close eye on.

Kane Richardson’s speed and Adam Zampa’s mystery spin are to important weapons at the disposal of Sutherland and it’ll be intriguing to see how big a part Nathan Lyon will play down the stretch once the veteran Australian Test spinner becomes available for the Renegades. Gurinder Sandhu offers a left-arm pace alternative.

Melbourne Renegades Prediction: High overseas contribution critical

Bat a couple of notable names, Melbourne Renegades’ domestic player pool isn’t as good as other teams, making them extremely dependant on those overseas stars like Bethell and Evans performing well. Asking Josh Brown to repeat his numbers of last season is optimistic, whilst Fraser-McGurk is an outstanding talent but can blow hot and cold.

The Renegades disappointed last season and under a new captain and head coach this time out, may not click initially. This is a long-term process for them and in the midst of stiff competition, the play-offs may come too soon for Will Sutherland’s side this campaign.