T20 Max Preview - UQ

Women

Entering the 2023 KFC T20 Max as favourites after their spectacle of a Grand Final are reigning Premiers, the University of Queensland. Riding high on their victory, the team is eager to maintain their winning streak and solidify their position as one of the powerhouses of the tournament. The side remains under the guidance of 2022 T20 Coach of the Year, Mark Daldy and captain Anlo van Deventer, the victorious Central Hinds captain from New Zealand who scored over 600 runs last season.  

This already strong side receives a notable boost with the addition of three recruits who know what it takes to win. Maddie Penna, Maddy Darke and Hannah Rowe are lined up to be X-factors joining the Uni squad as they strive to go back-to-back. The key recruitment of Tara Wheeler is anticipated to prove invaluable to the team's success, adding another powerhouse batting specialist. Her addition exemplifies the team's dedication to recruiting players who can contribute effectively to their winning strategy. However, the team has bid farewell to Ruby Strange, who has moved on to Wests, Lucy Williams who has transitioned to Ipswich and the inaugural T20 Max Player of the Final, Emmie Blamey who has returned home to the UK. While their absence will be felt, it also opens doors for emerging talents to step up and make their mark. These emerging and seasoned talents include the return of seven players who were part of last year’s Grand Final glory which produced some spectacular wickets, in addition to Uni’s WBBL contracted players Nicola Hancock and Charli Knott. The young returning talents include Queensland Country players, Laura Scheiwe and Breanna Craven. 

With a well-rounded squad, a skilled coach, and a capable captain, the University of Queensland is poised to capture hearts once again in the 2023 KFC T20 Max tournament. One thing is for certain – the team's journey in the upcoming season is bound to be a thrilling one, filled with spectacular performances, nail-biting moments, and a relentless pursuit of victory. 

Coach: Mark Daldy 

Captain: Anlo van Deventer 

2022 Placing: Premiers 

Players In:

• Maddy Darke (WA) 
• Maddie Penna (SA) 
• Hannah Rowe (New Zealand) 
• Tara Wheeler (Gold Coast) 

Players Out:

• Ruby Strange (Wests) 
• Lucy Williams (Ipswich) 
• Emmie Blamey (UK)

Players to Watch:

 Hannah Rowe - All eyes are on Hannah Rowe, the skilled international pace bowler from New Zealand, as she takes the field for the University of Queensland. Rowe’s track record of impressive performances and knack for breaking through defenses – like her 5/55 in the recent T20 World Cup – makes her the ultimate player to watch this T20 Max. Her in swing has troubled players across the globe, and now she’ll bring the same heat to this year’s competition. 

Charli Knott - the double threat returns to aid her University of Queensland side to another dominant T20 victory. Her explosive batting style and intimidating off-spin has earned her retention in the prestigious Australian A side, reflecting her growing reputation as an all-round powerhouse. With a history of match-winning performances including her career best figures of 7/18 for Uni last year, Knott's ability to turn the tide of the game swiftly makes her a captivating prospect in the 2023 T20 Max tournament.  

Men 

Coach: Peter Clarke

Captain: Jack Clayton

Home Ground: WEP Harris Field

University of Queensland will have a point to prove this KFC T20 Max. Falling short of their lofty standards in last years edition, UQ will be aiming high this season.

Queensland Bull and Brisbane Heat player Jack Clayton takes on the captaincy for this year’s competition. Having played for the Heat on an irregular basis, the KFC T20 Max will provide the Uni skipper a chance to show selectors why they should pick him. Run scoring machine Bryce Street will also be eager to translate his longer form success into the rapid fire format. Street’s medium pacers yielded strong returns last red ball season, don’t be surprised if captain Clayton turns to him for some magic with the ball.

Uni’s four pronged pace attack of Will Sanders, Matt Willans, Will Crook and Callum Henderson will be out to impress. With his Bulls contract not renewed for season 223/24, tall left armer Matt Willans will have a point to prove. Hobart Hurricanes replacement player Will Sanders will also be sending them down this season with the goal of adding to his First Class games tally.

Oliver Davies, one of the brightest talents in Australian white ball cricket, joins Uni for the T20 Max this season. Davies is a boundary hitting specialist, and will bring his Big Bash experience and youthful exuberance to the club. Joining Davies is Melbourne Star and New South Wales Blue Nick Larkin. The experienced Larkin has scored four First Class centuries and six T20 fifties in over 100 professional matches. His experience and maturity will balance well with young gun Davies.

Ex-Sunshine Coast Scorcher Alecz Day joins University this season. The former Peter Burge Medal winner will be bringing his all round abilities to WEP Harris Oval, adding plenty of firepower to the top order. He’ll have the company of former Queensland U19 captain and Scorcher Angus Lovell to welcome him to the club.

Players to watch – Oliver Davies – The Sydney Thunder and New South Wales batter is fearless and will take on any opposition or game situation. He has the ability to win games off his own bat, and has shown so in the BBL. His style will fit in nicely with the Claytons and Street who are lesser known for their big hitting. The balance could see Uni right in the mix as they typically are.

Players to watch – Callum Henderson – The Rockhampton product is an out and out fast bowler, unflinching in his approach to batters. Uni have plenty of Queensland pathways bowlers in Sanders and Willans, but my tip is Henderson could be their bowler leading the way. He bowls a sharp bouncer and can really push them through when required.