Hogg set for another Renegades campaign
THE Melbourne Renegades will start the Big Bash season next week with one of the most-experienced squads in the competition’s history.
But the oldest Big Basher of them all, Brad Hogg, reckons it just might be the way to crash through for the franchise’s first trophy.
Hogg, 46, has signed up for another campaign, vowing not to let off-season knee surgery end his career. The larrikin began a pre-competition camp on yesterday on the Sunshine Coast, downplaying concerns over his fitness.
“I would have liked to have played a little bit more grade cricket ... (but) I’m always feeling good. If I’m complaining, Australia’s in trouble,” he said.
“I’ve got a bit of experience behind me so there’s no excuses. If I’m fit to play, I’m expected to deliver.”
With Hogg linking up with Brad Hodge, 42, the Renegades might wear the tag of Dad’s Army this summer.
They’re joined by Cameron White, Dwayne Bravo – both 34 - and several others in their early 30s. Then there’s Will Sutherland who, at 18, is 28 years his junior. Hogg said there was a determined feel within the squad – but they wouldn’t be taking things over-seriously as they searched for success.
“We’ve got things to prove this year. We’ve got a really good list, an experienced list – a couple over 40 – but on paper, we’re good team,” Hogg said.
“I want to see a close competition and, hopefully, all the teams entertain like last year.
“We’ve got a very good product and we’ve got to make sure we’re growing and improving and ... to people over Christmas making sure everyone’s having a laugh.”
Hogg said he’d like to raise the bat for a half-century by playing when he was 50.