Cam Vellacott previews the UQ teams for the upcoming KFC T20 Max competition.
T20 Max Preview - Gold Coast
Men
Coach: Simon Belston
Captain: Matt Kuhnemann
Home Ground: Bill Pippen Oval
T20 Premierships: 2020/21; 2021/22; 2022/23
2023 Placing: 3rd
The Gold Coast have unveiled a crack roster boasting 13 players with either First Class experience or official squad affiliation. Of those players, Michael Neser, Xavier Bartlett, Kane Richardson, Matt Kuhnemann and Ben McDermott have represented Australia. The Dolphins bring in three experienced First Class players from New Zealand, Joe Carter, Brett Hampton and Nick Kelly. Additionally, rookie contracted Tasmanian allrounder Nick Davis will look to ignite his First Class career in the KFC T20 Max.
Players to Watch
Ben McDermott has dominated at every level he has played, and will be eager to decimate bowlers this season. He was brutal last season for the Dolphins in red ball cricket, and this KFC T20 Max is the perfect opportunity to set him up for another big summer.
In a side full of big names, expect Jackson Smith to fly under the radar and be a consistent performer. He made the First Grade men’s Team of the Year last season, and only continues to improve in all formats. Having moved to Victoria this season in pursuit of higher honours, Smith will be looking to gain early season form and impress selectors.
Women
Coach: Richard Griffiths
Captain: Sammy-Jo Johnson
Home Ground: Bill Pippen Oval
T20 Premierships: 2018/19
2023 Placing: 8th
Competing hard last season but unable to convert close results into wins, the Dolphins will again be a side willing to go the distance in each match. Big name interstate recruit Sammy-Jo Johnson returns to the KFC T20 Max and will again be the strike weapon for her old team. Left arm orthodox Zoe Griffith also makes the trip back up from Victoria, as does Erica Kershaw. Young Tasmanian keeper-batter Emma Manix-Geeves is a class player and an excellent addition to their top order, while Renegades all-rounder Carly Leeson will provide invaluable experience to the young side. Local talents Olivia Winter, Abigail Godfrey, Alvina Rauf and Emma Taylor will continue their trajectory into top performers.
Players to Watch
Sydney Thunder’s Sammy-Jo Johnson is near unstoppable in full flight, and the Gold Coast will need her at her best if they are to shake up the competition. A great competitor who had a solid season last summer without being outstanding, Sammy-Jo still has so much to give with the bat, ball and as captain.