TASMANIA’S STRIKE TEAM
BOWLER JARROD FREEMAN
The former Australian under-19s spinner was dropped in the deep end due to Johan Botha’s retirement last season. Held his nerve for two games before Afghani leg-spinner Qais Ahmad arrived.
ALLROUNDER SIMON MILENKO
Was originally pigeon-holed as a medium-fast bowling all-rounder, but turned that on its head with his explosive middle-order form with the Hurricanes. Can clear the pickets from ball one.
BOWLER ALEX PYECROFT
Made a solid start to his first-class debut last summer, taking 12 wickets with his canny swing bowling but is yet to play for the Tigers or Hurricanes with the white ball. Will be looking for experience.
BATSMAN ALEX DOOLAN
Now in the veteran category at 33 but still as stylish as ever. The former Test No.3 can be effective in Twenty20 cricket while still playing in his own classical fashion. Lays the platform.
BATSMAN CALEB JEWELL
The young gun made a sudden impact with the Hurricanes in when put in the vital No.3 spot. The 22-year-old could be one of the stars of this tournament given his talent and ability.
BOWLER LAWRENCE NEIL-SMITH
The former Australian under-19 and NSW fast bowler is a firm part of the Tigers and Hurricanes long-term plans. Spent last summer playing for Clarence in the CTPL. Will gain valuable experience here.
BATSMAN CHARLIE WAKIM
Has bided his time in the lower levels and cashed in when he got a crack last summer, making 160 on Sheffield Shield debut against South Australia. Has the all-round game to shine here.
BATSMAN / WICKETKEEPER JAKE DORAN
Has built his game in the longer forms, but is now ready to take his prodigious talent to T20 cricket. Made his first-class debut four seasons ago but is still only 22 with a huge future ahead of him.
BOWLER RILEY MEREDITH
What an impression the Clarence quick made on last summer’s Big Bash League. Frequently hits the 140km/h-plus mark, which is sure to test the Strike League’s best batsmen.
BATSMAN KEEGAN OATES
There is great excitement around toporder batsman Oates. He was named the under-19 national championships player of the tournament. The only other Tasmanian to do so? Matthew Wade.
BATSMAN SEAN WILLIS
Another young gun ready to blossom after making his first-class debut last season. Scored a century and 85 in his last two innings in last year’s Futures League. Can also bowl handy medium pace.