Mon Dec 15 08:10:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

The Brisbane Heat are set to kick off their BBL season against the Melbourne Renegades with a revamped squad. Left-arm spinner Paddy Dooley returns as a replacement for the injured Matt Kuhnemann, while Western Australian quick Liam Haskett also joins the team. Several players are in line for their Heat debuts. Key players like Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, and Michael Neser are unavailable due to Ashes preparations. Nathan McSweeney will captain the side.

News Article:

Heat Welcome Back Dooley, Add Haskett for BBL Opener Against Renegades

Geelong, VIC – The Brisbane Heat are gearing up for their KFC Big Bash League (BBL) season opener against the Melbourne Renegades at Geelong’s GMHBA Stadium tomorrow night with a mix of familiar faces and fresh talent.

Left-arm spinner Paddy Dooley, who made his BBL debut for the Heat in 2020-21, returns to the squad as a Local Replacement Player (LRP) for Matt Kuhnemann, who is recovering from a side strain. Dooley brings valuable experience, having played 19 BBL games for the Hobart Hurricanes and being part of their championship-winning squad last summer.

Joining Dooley is Western Australian left-arm quick Liam Haskett, also as an LRP. Haskett previously played two BBL games for the Adelaide Strikers.

The Heat squad could see up to five potential debutants in the game, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, Oli Patterson, Hugh Weibgen, and Lachlan Hearne.

However, the Heat will be without Australian stars Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, and Michael Neser, who are preparing for the upcoming Ashes Test. Additionally, English import Tom Alsop is under observation for knee soreness. Nathan McSweeney will lead the Heat in their first game.

“We’re being a little cautious with Matty and Tom, so it is great to have an experienced player like Paddy to call into our group,” said Heat coach Johan Botha. “We’re pleased that Liam can join us. He’s had a taste of the BBL already and we think he has the skills and ability to play an important role.”

The Heat will train at GMHBA Stadium today ahead of the highly anticipated clash against the Renegades. The match will be broadcast live on Channel 7, 7Plus, Foxtel, and Kayo.

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