Renegades are poised for a coaching shake-up after a disappointing Big Bash League (BBL) season. Despite having a year remaining on his contract, David Saker is reportedly set to be shown the door following the Renegades’ underwhelming seventh-place finish.
Second-Last Finish Prompts Renegades to Seek Fresh Start
Saker, who took the reins in 2021, was expected to lead the Renegades into the 2024-25 BBL season. However, a dismal 2023-24 campaign, which saw them win just two games and finish second-last on the table, has forced the Renegades’ hand. The axing of captain Nic Maddinson midway through the season further underscored the team’s struggles.
The Melbourne Renegades have become synonymous with coaching instability since their BBL title win in 2018-19 under Andrew McDonald. McDonald’s departure to become an assistant coach for the Australian team triggered a revolving door of coaches. Michael Klinger, who succeeded McDonald, only lasted two seasons before the Renegades finished bottom of the table for two consecutive years.
Saker’s arrival offered a glimmer of hope, with the Renegades bouncing back to finish third in the 2022-23 season. However, the 2023-24 season proved to be a step back, highlighting the inconsistency that has plagued the franchise in recent years.
High Player Turnover Hampers Renegades’ Performance
The Renegades’ struggles weren’t solely attributable to coaching. A high player turnover significantly impacted their performance. The axing of captain Maddinson, the on-and-off availability of veteran Aaron Finch (who ultimately retired from the BBL), and injury concerns for Shaun Marsh all contributed to the team’s lack of cohesion.
Despite the coaching change, there are signs of optimism for the Renegades. The signing of Brisbane Heat opener Josh Brown promises an exciting opening partnership with Jake Fraser-McGurk. Additionally, the Renegades are actively searching for a new high-performance manager to oversee the cricket program. This move, mirrored by the Melbourne Stars, highlights Cricket Victoria’s efforts to establish a stronger connection between the state’s men’s cricket program and the two BBL franchises.
With a new coach and potential player acquisitions on the horizon, the Renegades will be hoping to turn the tide and challenge for the BBL title in the upcoming season.
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