There's a new head coach in charge at Hobart Hurricanes and Jude Coleman will be hoping for a fast start in her new role in Tasmania. MATTHEW LUDDINGTON takes a look at the how the squad is shaping up going into the new season
Hobart Hurricanes bounced back after several disappointing seasons with a playoff berth last year, and will be looking to build on that this season.
The team finished fourth, with a winning record, to qualify for the playoffs to the surprise of many, before losing in the Eliminator to Brisbane Heat,
The core of the squad from last year has remained, although Mignon du Preez will be sorely missed.
New overseas signings Shabnim Ismail and Bryony Smith strengthen the squad, and under the captaincy of Elyse Villani, the trajectory for the team appears to be upwards.
New head coach Jude Coleman's task is to ensure key players continue to perform, and to integrate talented youngsters into the side.
Coach: Jude Coleman
Captain: Elyse Villani
How strong is the batting?
Last year, the Hurricanes' batting lineup excelled, primarily due to the outstanding performances of three key players.
South African international Lizelle Lee made a significant contribution with 296 runs, complementing her compatriot du Preez who scored 380 runs at an average of 31.7, and Heather Graham added 258 runs at an average of 28.66. Although Australia internationals Nicola Carey and Villani had relatively quiet seasons, they are proven world-class batters who are expected to fire this season.
The arrival of England international Bryony Smith offers a good replacement for du Preez, and the Hurricanes will rely heavily on their top five batters to score their runs this season.
Lizelle Lee, left, and Elyse Villani are big players for Hobart Hurricanes [Getty Images]
How strong is the bowling?
The Hurricanes boast a diverse array of spin-bowling options, and their recent acquisition of Ismail, an express pace bowler, is a pivotal addition to their ranks.
Ismail, who has taken 317 wickets for South Africa, has clocked 80mph and strikes fear into the hearts of batters. Additionally medium-pacers Carey and Graham delivered commendable performances last season, taking 14 and 10 wickets respectively.
Aussie international spinner Molly Strano is useful in the powerplay and through the middle overs, and can be relied on to be disciplined.
Mary Gibson's leg-spin is effective, as shown by her career-best figures of 4 for 24 against the Melbourne Renegades last season. Smith contributes as an economical off-spinner.
The signing of Ismail adds a new dimension to the attack, and her arrival will help the other bowlers.
Why should the fans be excited?
Villani's successful debut season as captain provides ample reason for fans to be optimistic about the future. While the departure of du Preez is a loss, the presence of Smith and Ismail as excellent replacements should ease concerns. Fans can look forward to the excitement of watching Ismail in action, charging in at full throttle.
The squad is brimming with youthful talent, including the likes of Emma Manix-Geeves, Hayley Silver-Holmes, an d Amy Smith. Rachel Trenaman, a player of immense potential, has been ruled out of the tournament after rupturing an ACL for the second time in her short career.
Head coach Coleman's responsibility will be to nurture and provide opportunities for these budding talents throughout the season.
Lee and Smith's destructive potential in the powerplay is undeniable, and both Villani and Carey are poised for substantial seasons after relatively modest returns last year.
The team boasts a well-balanced blend of experience and youth, and the Hurricanes should set their sights on a return to the playoffs.
Hobart are under new leadership in the shape of head coach Jude Coleman [Getty Images]
Why should the fans be worried?
The Hurricanes were heavily reliant on their key players performing last year. They don’t have as many international players as some other teams, and will need their stars to produce in order to have another good season.
The Hurricanes' batting lineup is reliant on their top five, and lacks the power of the strongest teams in the competition. While Ismail's arrival adds a fresh dimension to their bowling attack, the team remains somewhat lacking in high-quality fast-bowling options compared to the strongest squads.
The presence of numerous young talents in the squad holds promise for the future, but it also presents a risk, as a string of early losses could potentially dent their confidence. Coleman and Villani will need to nurture belief and consistency.
Squad: Nicola Carey, Maisy Gibson, Heather Graham, Ruth Johnston, Hayley Silver-Holmes, Amy Smith, Molly Strano, Rachel Trenaman, Elyse Villani, Shabnim Ismail, Bryony Smith, Emma Manix-Geeves, Lizelle Lee, Naomi Stalenberg
Fixtures and start times AEST: October 20 – Perth Scorchers (h, 7.10pm); October 25 – Perth Scorchers (a, 7.10pm); October 27 - Adelaide Strikers (a, 4.40pm); October 30 – Sydney Thunder (h, 6.10pm); 29 October – Melbourne Stars (h, 7.10pm), 4 November - Brisbane Heat (h, 6.30pm); 9 November-Sydney Thunder (a, 3.00pm); 10 November - Sydney Sixers (a, 7.10pm), 13 November – Sydney Sixers (h, 6.10pm); 15 - November Brisbane Heat (a, 12.00pm); 17 - November Melbourne Stars (h, 7.40pm); 19 November - Melbourne Renegades (a, 10.10am); 23 November - Melbourne Renegades (h, 7.10pm); 26 November - Adelaide Strikers (h, 10.10am).
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