T20 Max Preview - Western Suburbs

Mens

Coach: Peter Steindl
Captain: Sam Truloff
Home Ground: Jack McLaughlin Oval
2023 Placing: 9th

After underachieving their high standards last year, Wests will be looking to bounce back. Steve McGiffin, Isiah Snell and Tom Campbell were recently announced in the QC Academy and will anchor their side’s batting. Brad Hope, Arjun Nair and Paddy Dooley come as the interstate recruits looking to add spark. Sam Truloff adds some much needed experience back into the fold, while Rex Tooley and Jared Sippel are X factor players capable of turning matches quickly.

Players to Watch 
Expect Steve McGiffin to again be at the forefront for his side. One of the competition’s most consistent performers, McGiffin’s middle order batting and medium pacers are crucial if Wests are to push for the top four. Both he and Paddy Dooley are playing in the Max 60 in the Caribbean, expect them both to come back and hit the ground running. 

Paddy Dooley will again be a focal point for his side’s attack. Ultra-competitive, Dooley will have a point to prove after not receiving a Tasmanian state contract this season. Another motivating factor to perform is his sister, Josie, who suffered a stroke while on a holiday earlier this year and is on her road to recovery. 

Womens

Coach: Andy Richards
Captain: TBC
Home Ground: Jack McLaughlin Oval
2023 Placing: 5th

Missing out on last year’s T20 Max finals, Western Suburbs have strengthened their squad with a blend of youth and experience for this year’s campaign. They have recruited the seasoned trio of Sixers’ batter Mathilda Carmichael, hard-hitting Striker Bridget Patterson, and ACT quick Holly Ferling. Additionally, former Western Suburbs First Grade captain and current ACT Meteor Annie Wikman makes her return. Wikman and emerging NSW Country batter Samira Mitchell will be eager to use the competition as a launching pad into the Big Bash. The team will look to youthful local talents Courtney Sippel, Naiya Varidel, Lilli Hamilton, and Grace Parsons to be damaging with the ball. Expect Ferling’s experience to help take the young bowling outfit to the next level. Additionally, Ruby Strange and Varidel have been included in the QC Academy and will be eager to show the benefits. 

Players to Watch 
One of the state’s brightest young talents, Lily Bassingthwaighte will look to display the all-round abilities which earned her a maiden Queensland contract this year. Still only 17, Bassingthwaighte has already had years of experience representing Queensland in the pathway program. She has genuine X factor and the ability to break games open with the bat and ball.