The Adelaide Strikers, one of the most well-known franchises in the Big Bash League (BBL), have had several influential captains over the years. From early leadership changes to the established captains who brought the team to success, these players have all played a key role in shaping the franchise. Here’s a detailed look at the Adelaide Strikers’ captains from 2011 to 2025, including their records and contributions.
1. Michael Klinger (2011-2012)
- Matches as Captain: 7
- Won: 2
- Lost: 5
- Tied: 0
- Drawn: 0
- No Result: 0
- Winning Percentage: 28.57%
- Losing Percentage: 71.42%
- No Result Percentage: 0.00%
Overview:
Michael Klinger was the first captain of the Adelaide Strikers, leading the team in the early stages of the BBL. His leadership in the inaugural season did not bring significant success, but it set the foundation for the team to build upon in subsequent years.
2. Johan Botha (2012-2015)
- Matches as Captain: 23
- Won: 12
- Lost: 9
- Tied: 0
- Drawn: 0
- No Result: 2
- Winning Percentage: 52.17%
- Losing Percentage: 39.13%
- No Result Percentage: 8.69%
Overview:
Johan Botha provided stability as a captain for the Adelaide Strikers over several seasons. Under his leadership, the team had a more balanced record, winning over 50% of their matches. His experience as an international cricketer helped him steer the team during this period.
3. Phil Hughes (2014)
- Matches as Captain: 2
- Won: 0
- Lost: 2
- Tied: 0
- Drawn: 0
- No Result: 0
- Winning Percentage: 0.00%
- Losing Percentage: 100.00%
- No Result Percentage: 0.00%
Overview:
Phil Hughes had a brief stint as captain, and although he didn’t secure any victories in his two matches, his leadership experience was valued during a transitional period for the Strikers.
4. Brad Hodge (2015-2017)
- Matches as Captain: 17
- Won: 10
- Lost: 7
- Tied: 0
- Drawn: 0
- No Result: 0
- Winning Percentage: 58.82%
- Losing Percentage: 41.17%
- No Result Percentage: 0.00%
Overview:
Brad Hodge brought experience and stability to the Strikers, achieving a winning record under his leadership. Known for his calm and calculated approach, Hodge played an instrumental role in guiding the team through the mid-2010s.
5. Travis Head (2017-2023)
- Matches as Captain: 28
- Won: 17
- Lost: 11
- Tied: 0
- Drawn: 0
- No Result: 0
- Winning Percentage: 60.71%
- Losing Percentage: 39.28%
- No Result Percentage: 0.00%
Overview:
Travis Head became one of the most successful captains in Adelaide Strikers history. Under his leadership, the team enjoyed consistent success and reached new heights. His leadership on the field, combined with his explosive batting, made him a key figure for the Strikers during his tenure.
6. Colin Ingram (2018-2019)
- Matches as Captain: 14
- Won: 5
- Lost: 9
- Tied: 0
- Drawn: 0
- No Result: 0
- Winning Percentage: 35.71%
- Losing Percentage: 64.28%
- No Result Percentage: 0.00%
Overview:
Colin Ingram’s time as captain was not the most successful for the Strikers, with the team struggling under his leadership. However, his experience and ability to adapt were key in guiding the team through a challenging phase.
7. Alex Carey (2019-2021)
- Matches as Captain: 16
- Won: 7
- Lost: 8
- Tied: 0
- Drawn: 0
- No Result: 1
- Winning Percentage: 43.75%
- Losing Percentage: 50.00%
- No Result Percentage: 6.25%
Overview:
Alex Carey took over as captain for the Adelaide Strikers, but his tenure saw mixed results. While his leadership was valued, the team was often inconsistent during this period, and they struggled to convert close matches into victories.
8. Peter Siddle (2020-2023)
- Matches as Captain: 27
- Won: 12
- Lost: 15
- Tied: 0
- Drawn: 0
- No Result: 0
- Winning Percentage: 44.44%
- Losing Percentage: 55.55%
- No Result Percentage: 0.00%
Overview:
Peter Siddle, one of Australia’s most experienced fast bowlers, captained the Adelaide Strikers in a challenging phase. His leadership saw a solid mix of wins and losses, though the team was often competitive, particularly in high-pressure matches.
9. Matthew Short (2023-2025)
- Matches as Captain: 15
- Won: 9
- Lost: 6
- Tied: 0
- Drawn: 0
- No Result: 0
- Winning Percentage: 60.00%
- Losing Percentage: 40.00%
- No Result Percentage: 0.00%
Overview:
Matthew Short took over the reins as the Strikers’ captain for the 2023-2024 season, leading the team to a successful campaign with a 60% win rate. His leadership, combined with his all-round contributions, has helped stabilize the team.
10. Overall Big Bash Career Stats for Matthew Short (2025)
As the captain of the Adelaide Strikers in 2025, Matthew Short’s Big Bash League career stats further solidify his value to the team.
- Matches Played: 80
- Batting Stats:
- Innings: 77
- Runs: 1968
- Strike Rate: 140.17
- Average: 28.11
- High Score: 100
- 6s: 86
- 4s: 150
- Balls Faced: 1404
- Not Outs: 7
- 50s: 13
- 100s: 1
- Bowling Stats:
- Innings: 56
- Wickets: 30
- Runs: 1004
- Economy: 7.48
- Average: 33.47
- Strike Rate: 26.83
- Best Bowling: 3/14
- Fielding Stats:
- Catches: 42
- Player of the Match: 7
- Player of the Tournament: 0
Overview:
Matthew Short’s all-round capabilities make him a standout figure for the Adelaide Strikers in 2025. With an impressive batting record and consistent contributions with the ball, Short is not just the leader but also one of the team’s most influential players.
Conclusion
The Adelaide Strikers have seen a range of captains come and go since their inception, with each bringing their unique qualities to the role. From Michael Klinger’s early leadership to Matthew Short’s modern-day all-round contributions, the team has grown into one of the most competitive franchises in the Big Bash League. With leadership consistently evolving, the Strikers’ future looks promising under the captaincy of Matthew Short as they continue their pursuit of BBL glory.
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