We’re currently seven matches into the 2023-24 Big Bash League season, and it looks to be another exciting season of twenty over cricket. Unfortunately, due to a rainout and a dangerous pitch, only four games have been played so far. However, this is enough to assess team rankings and make some early predictions for the finals.
8. Melbourne Stars (BBL 12 record: 3 wins – 11 losses, 8th place) – The Melbourne Stars were expected to be one of the main franchises when the BBL started, but they have not yet won a title in the 13-year history of the competition. With key players like Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, and Joe Burns, their downfall seems to be in their bowling department featuring unproven players like Olly Stone and Usama Mir.
7. Hobart Hurricanes (BBL 12: 6-8, 6th) – The Hurricanes, who have never won a BBL series, are predicted to finish seventh due to the competitive nature of the other teams.
6. Melbourne Renegades (BBL 12: 7-7, 3rd) – The Renegades’ third-place finish last season is somewhat misleading, as they are facing issues related to team cohesion and the age of their players.
5. Sydney Thunder (BBL 12: 7-7, 4th) – The Thunder have shown inconsistency in their history, making them difficult to predict. Their deep batting lineup featuring Alex Hales, Cam Bancroft, and Chris Green gives them some potential.
4. Adelaide Strikers (BBL 12: 5-9, 7th) – Despite finishing second last in BBL 12, the Strikers cannot be discounted due to their consistent performance in the competition’s history, especially with batting powerhouses like Chris Lynn and D’Arcy Short.
3. Brisbane Heat (BBL 12: 6-7, 5th/ Runner up) – The Heat, who made it to the final last year, have a balanced squad and great chemistry, placing them among the top teams.
2. Sydney Sixers (BBL 12: 10-3, 2nd) – The Sixers have a strong history of consistency in the tournament and boast a formidable bowling attack.
1. Perth Scorchers (BBL 12: 11-3, 1st/Champions) – The most successful franchise in BBL history, the Scorchers are favorites to win it all again this season due to their emphasis on homegrown talent and a strong bowling lineup led by veteran seamers and talented all-rounders.