One of the more successful teams in the short history of the Big Bash, the Sixers will again be looking for a finals appearance this season.
A very strong all rounder department is led by the nagging pace and big hitting of Shaun Abbott and Moises Henriques, with Steve O'Keefe set to be the main spinner when Nathan Lyon is on national duties.
The wicket-keeping looks a little light on. With Brad Haddin set to be on international duties for most of the summer, Dan Smith will take the leading role.
Big hitters Nic Maddinson and Englishmen Michael Lumb should open the batting again, as they have done for the past 2 seasons. Another 3 openers join the squad this year though, with Jordan Silk, Mark Cosgrove and Marcus North all becoming Sixers. There is room for one or two of these new players in each match probably, and it will be interesting to see who the selectors opt for. I believe that Marcus North is still taking some time away from the game after the tragic passing of his brother, and there has been no return date announced yet.
Steve Smith will play in the first game and should feature more in the latter half of the season, after the Ashes are over. Ravi Bopara will also be around for the first 4 matches of the series.
No shortage of quicks in this team, with Brett Lee, Trent Copeland and Josh Hazlewood leading the attack. All 3 of these have represented Australia in some form of the game, and are quality players. Mitch Starc has been removed from the squad with injury, but could make an early return later in the season. Nathan Lyon should play after the Tests are over, and Chris Tremlett will also play in the last 4 matches of the season.
1. Michael Lumb
2. Nic Maddinson
3. Steve Smith
4. Mark Cosgrove / Jordan Silk
5. Ravi Bopara
6. Moises Henriques
7. Dan Smith (wk)
8. Steven O'Keefe
9. Brett Lee
10. Trent Copeland / Shaun Abbott
11. Josh Hazlewood
MADDINSON, Nic - Batsman, $41,800
Maddinson has been in good form of late, smashing some big and quick scores in the Ryobi Cup and Sheffield Shield. Set to open again, look for him to really break out this season.
O'KEEFE, Steven - All-Rounder, $72,900
One of the forgotten men of Australian cricket. Statistically he is the best domestic spinner in the country right now, leading the Sheffield Shield tally for wickets. He is in good form with the ball and is handy with the bat. This makes him a very nice option at this price if you have money to spend on the All-Rounders.
SMITH, Daniel - Wicket Keeper, $43,300
Not exactly a house hold name, or the most proven scorer, but if you are looking for a unique and cheap keeping option, Smith could be your man. Set to play at least the first 4 matches of the season with Brad Haddin playing tests, he should score solidly.
LEE, Brett - Bowler, $69,900
One of the finest fast bowlers that Australia has produced, Lee is still playing Big Bash and is a very valuable member of the Sixers side. He has lost none of his out and out pace and this continues to worry opposition batsmen. Can also land a few lusty lower order blows.
What do you think about the Sixers side this Summer? Can they make the finals again? Which players are making it into your side?
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