Hobart Hurricanes have made a significant leadership change ahead of the 2023–24 BBL season, appointing Nathan Ellis as their new captain. The Australian pacer steps into the role after Matthew Wade, the former skipper, stepped down. Ellis, who previously served as the vice-captain, not only filled in for Wade in his absence but also showcased his leadership potential. The 29-year-old has been an integral part of the Hurricanes for five seasons, and this will mark his sixth season with the franchise.
Ellis, having re-signed his contract with the Hurricanes until 2026, brings a wealth of experience to the captaincy role. Since his debut with the Hurricanes, he has played 51 BBL matches and has an impressive record of 61 wickets, making him one of the highest wicket-takers for the team.
Expressing his thoughts on the new responsibility, Ellis remarked that being named captain was not something he initially aspired to achieve, but it is an immense honor. He emphasized his deep connection with the Hurricanes, acknowledging the franchise’s significant role in his career. Ellis is enthusiastic about the prospect of leading the team and aims to bring silverware to Tasmania.
“It is a huge honour. Captaining was not something I set out to achieve, or a goal that I set for myself, but to lead the franchise is nothing short of an honour,” Ellis was quoted as saying by Hobart Hurricanes.
“The Hurricanes are a franchise that I hold very dear to my heart and have done a lot for me. So to have the opportunity to lead and hopefully bring some silverware home to Tasmania is really exciting,” he added.
The Hurricanes’ Head Coach, Jeff Vaughan, lauded the appointment, expressing utmost confidence in Ellis as a cricketer and leader. Vaughan highlighted Ellis’s work ethic, resilience, and positive attitude, qualities that align with the Hurricanes’ values. The team is gearing up for their BBL|13 season opener on December 11 against Sydney Sixers in Launceston.
“We are extremely pleased to announce Nathan Ellis as our captain for the BBL|13 season. He has already led the team in patches last year, and we have the utmost confidence in Nathan as a cricketer and a leader. He embodies everything the Hurricanes stand for; a great work ethic, resilience and a fantastic attitude towards the game and his teammates,” he said.
As Nathan Ellis takes the reins as the new skipper, the Hurricanes anticipate an exciting season under his leadership, aiming to make an impact and vie for championship glory in the upcoming Big Bash League campaign.
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