BBL5 was a case of déjà vu for the Strikers, who stormed to the minor premiership before suffering a surprise loss to a Khawaja-inspired Thunder in their home semi (indeed, the Green Machine were the only franchise to topple Adelaide last season having inflicted their lone defeat in the group stages).

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Adil Rashid’s 18 wickets will be hard to replace and with Jon Holland also a doubtful starter the spin stocks look a tad thin but their pace attack is reliable and will once again be spearheaded by Kane Richardson and the variations of Ben Laughlin.

The Strikers look particularly strong with the bat, thanks largely to the likes of Travis Head, Tim Ludeman and Brad Hodge, still a force at the level beyond the age of 40, while Ben Dunk is a useful addition from the Hurricanes.

We’re also expecting a breakout season from Jake Lehmann, son of national coach Darren, who looks destined for higher honours.

A lot may depend on the fortunes of ‘gun for hire’ Keiron Pollard (pictured above), who returns to the city of churches for a second stint having been forced to sit out all of last season with a knee injury.

The Strikers look one of the stronger units in the league and should feature prominently once again.

Unibet Odds: 8.00

Last Season: 3rd

Prediction: 1st