Bailey, Paine Canes again
THEY’RE back: George Bailey (left) and Tim Paine (right) have recommitted to the Hobart Hurricanes for the seventh edition of the Big Bash cricket league, ending speculation they were looking to move.
TWO of Hobart’s favourite sons have recommitted to the Hurricanes for the seventh edition of the Big Bash League in a big boost for the franchise.
George Bailey and Tim Paine have signed for the next edition of the tournament, ending speculation they were looking to move.
Former Australian Twenty20 captain Bailey will take the reins as skipper for the first time in a couple of years, while Paine — who has resurrected his international T20 career on the back of consistent BBL form — will be his deputy.
Bailey led the Hurricanes last season with 249 runs and three half-centuries at an average of 49.4, while Paine was again solid at the top of the order with 227 runs in his eight matches.
Securing the signature of the pair was a top priority for incoming coach Gary Kirsten, who can now turn his attention to landing two high-quality imports.
“I’m really excited about this opportunity, it’s been a couple of years since I’ve had the captaincy,” Bailey said.
“There’s been a few changes — new coach, new CEO, so there’ll be a different feel around the group. It’s the one tournament Tasmania hasn’t won yet, so I’m looking forward to rectifying that.”
Paine, touring Pakistan with an ICC T20 World XI, is optimistic the Hurricanes can become a genuine contender for the title in 2017-18.
Since reaching the final in BBL|04 Hobart has struggled to find consistency in the short version of the game, missing the top four in the past two season.
“I’m really excited by the opportunity to work with George as vice-captain this season. I think our leadership styles will work well together,” he said. “We’ve obviously both been with the Hurricanes for some time now and it’s great to have a couple of Tasmanians leading the side.
“Hopefully we can ... get back to playing in the finals.”
The Hurricanes will announce new signings for both its BBL and WBBL sides in the coming weeks.
BBL|07 squad: George Bailey (c) Tim Paine (vc), Dan Christian, Hamish Kingston, Cameron Boyce, Clive Rose, Ben McDermott, Jake Reed, Beau Webster, James Bazley.