T20 Max Preview - Sandgate-Redcliffe

Mens

Coach: Justin Sternes

Captain: Mitchell Swepson

Home Ground: Trevor Hohns Oval 

T20 Premierships: 2015/16, 2016/17; 2017/18

2023 Placing: 7th 

The Sandgate-Redcliffe men will be out to replicate the success of their women’s program in this year’s KFC T20 Max. The Gators have struggled in recent years, but have a close-knit group with quality youth emerging. Muhammad Irfan Jnr is a very important addition to their bowling stocks, the awkward fast bowler a challenge for even the best batters. Dutch T20 star Ben Cooper returns to Australia to play with little brother Jack. The big-hitting duo will be looking to spend time at the crease as bash brothers. South Australian Jake Winter and New South Welshman Blake McDonald bring First Class experience to the batting order.

Players to Watch

Mitch Swepson is one of the best bowlers in the country and is a huge inclusion for the Gators. Taking the captaincy reins, Swepson will be doing everything he can for his side. The tournament is a great way for him to find early season form and continue his push to wear the green and gold again.

Despite his young age and slight frame, Steve Hogan is already a class First Grade batter. A student of the game, mixing with the best talent in the country will only make him better. This campaign will be a great chance to show off his finesse in the white ball format.

Womens

Coach: Tony Dudgeon 

Captain: TBC

Home Ground: Trevor Hohns Oval 

T20 Premierships: 2014/15; 2016/17; 2023 

2023 Placing: 1st

The reigning premiers Sandgate-Redcliffe return with a roster which will once again be hard to beat. With three of the top six run scorers in last year’s competition all returning, their batting is as fierce as ever. Heat gun Georgia Voll and Strikers star Katie Mack will again open the batting and look to capitalise during the power play. Former Kath Smith Medalist Tess Cooper is the cornerstone of the side, providing leadership which allows those around her to thrive. Jemma Barsby will make the trip up from South Australia to play for her old club. New Zealand White Fern medium pacer Molly Penfold will lead their attack, and West Australian Lilly Mills will provide valuable offies.

Players to Watch

Georgia Voll has gone from strength to strength as a player, and expect this season to be no different. She led the run scorers last season, finished fifth in wickets taken and was the Fire Player of the Year. Still only 21, Voll has many levels to unlock yet and KFC T20 Max is a great platform to do it.

Katie Mack finished last season second in the run scorers with a healthy average of 54.25. Mack is all class and relies on finding the gap and timing the ball powerfully. Having just played through winter in Manchester, Mack is in good form and raring to go for the Gators.