Former Captain Reinstated As The Skipper For The Next Season

Hobart Hurricanes have named former Australia skipper George Bailey as their captain for the upcoming edition of the Big Bash League while wicketkeeper-batsman Tim Paine has been appointed as the vice-captain of the side.

In an otherwise dismal campaign for the Hobart in the last edition, right-handed Bailey was their standout performer, scoring 247 runs in eight innings at an astonishing average of 49.40. But despite Bailey’s impressive batting, the Hobart-based outfit had finished second last in the eight-team competition.

Bailey was an integral part of the Pune-based franchise, Rising Pune Super Giants in 2016, though he was not picked by the management this year, as the think-tank opted for explosive all-rounder Ben Stokes.

35-years-old Bailey, who had stepped down from captaincy before the fifth season, expressed his delight overtaking the role again and wished to bring the first title to Horbat in the seventh edition.

“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, who had also impressed last season by scoring 227 runs in eight games and affecting nine dismissals behind the stumps, also expressed his excitement over his new role. Paine’s impressive show had helped him to earn a recall from Australia’s T20I team and he will be touring India next month to join the Australian team who will kick off their tour on Sunday (17th September).

“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,” Paine 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 with the squad we’re putting together we can be a really competitive side in BBL|07 and get back to playing in the finals.”

The Hurricanes will open their new campaign against Melbourne Renegades at Bellerive Oval on December 21.

Hurricanes Current Squad:

George Bailey (c), James Bazley, Cameron Boyce, Dan Christian, Hamish Kingston, Ben McDermott, Tim Paine, Jake Reed, Clive Rose, Beau Webster.