The Big Bash League (BBL) is a popular cricket tournament that began in 2011. It has become an important event for Australian players in the T20 format, giving young players a chance to make a name in international cricket. The BBL is now highly competitive, with teams needing to perform well to gain attention. A team’s success depends on its performance on match day, regardless of money spent or star players bought. The captain plays a crucial role, with his decisions impacting the game’s outcome. A good captain focuses on the team’s performance and contributes to its success. Here are some of the best captains in BBL history.
5. Moises Henriques
Moises was born in Portugal and never imagined he would lead the Sydney Sixers to victory. An Australian cricketer, he debuted in T20 cricket in 2009 but was run out for just 1 run. Despite this setback, he has significantly impacted the Big Bash League (BBL) by leading the Sydney Sixers. Henriques is a middle-order batsman and right-arm medium pacer. Initially, he became a crucial team member by scoring runs and lowering the opposition’s run rate. Later, he proved to be a brilliant leader, winning two consecutive BBL titles in 2019-20 and 2020-21. His win percentage stands at 56.25%.
4. Simon Katich
Perth Scorchers skipper Simon Katich ranks fourth on the list. He debuted in the BBL and for the Perth Scorchers in 2011. As a left-handed batsman and part-time left-arm chinaman bowler, he gave the team an extra edge. His experience in international cricket and other domestic leagues like the IPL helped him lead the Perth Scorchers. Katich had a special ability to give the team a strong start and slow down the opposition’s run rate in the middle overs. He handled the pressure of batting, bowling, and captaincy well for two years. Simon Katich has a win percentage of 62.50%, with 12 wins, 7 losses, and 1 draw.
3. Adam Voges
Adam Voges is the second captain from the Perth Scorchers on the list. He took over the captaincy in 2014 after Simon Katich’s resignation and continued until his retirement in 2018. Voges debuted in the BBL in 2011 with the Melbourne Stars. Though his international career was not as expected, things changed when he joined the Scorchers in 2012. Initially, he proved to be an important all-rounder and later took the team to new heights. Under him, the Scorchers won two league titles in 2015-16 and 2017-18. Adam Voges has a win percentage of 67.74%, with 21 wins and 10 losses. His international career spanned nine years, including a stint as stand-in vice-captain with David Warner in a test match.
2. Travis Head
Travis Head is one of the most successful captains and players in the BBL. He debuted in the 2012-2013 season and has been loyal to the Adelaide Strikers since then. Head took over the captaincy in 2017 after Brad Hodge and has done a commendable job. He also plays a crucial role for the Australian test team, making his test debut in 2018 against Pakistan. In January 2019, Head was announced as Australia’s new Test vice-captain with Pat Cummins as captain before the series against Sri Lanka. Travis Head has a win percentage of 75%, with 15 wins and 6 losses. He is also part of the upcoming Ashes series in Australia.
1. Steve Smith
Australian legend and current test team vice-captain Steve Smith tops the list. Smith debuted in the BBL’s first season as the captain of the Sydney Sixers. His captaincy lasted for two years. During his tenure, he was also making headlines for his national team performances. Steve Smith is considered one of the best players in the test format. His ability to handle pressure in all cricket formats at the international level made him a suitable leader for the BBL team. Steve Smith has a win percentage of 77.27%, with 8 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw. He is also part of the upcoming Ashes series in Australia as Vice-Captain.