By Tim Douglas 
The Brisbane Heat enter the 2024-25 Big Bash League (BBL) season as defending champions, aiming to build on last season’s stunning title-winning run. With minimal changes to their squad and a new head coach in Johan Botha, the Heat look well-positioned for another deep run in the tournament.
Squad Overview of Brisbane Heat BBL in 2024-25
Captain: Usman Khawaja
Coach: Johan Botha
Batting Line-Up:
- Usman Khawaja (Captain)
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Matthew Renshaw
- Tom Alsop (overseas, ENG)
- Colin Munro (overseas, NZ)
- Max Bryant
- Nathan McSweeney
- Jimmy Peirson (wicketkeeper)
Allrounders:
- Paul Walter (overseas, ENG)
- Jack Wildermuth
- Callum Vidler
Bowlers:
- Spencer Johnson (left-arm pace)
- Xavier Bartlett (seamer)
- Michael Neser (seamer)
- Matthew Kuhnemann (left-arm spin)
- Mitchell Swepson (leg-spin)
- Jack Wood (left-arm spin)
- Will Prestwidge (pace)
How They Stack Up
The Heat’s championship-winning formula was built on consistency, resilience, and a balanced side. They’ve retained key overseas stars Colin Munro and Paul Walter, while also drafting England’s Tom Alsop to reinforce the middle order. His dual role as a batter and backup wicketkeeper provides versatility.
Losing Josh Brown (to Melbourne Renegades) and Sam Billings (to Sydney Thunder) could hurt their firepower, but their top-order still looks formidable with Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne likely available for a late-season push.
In the bowling department, Spencer Johnson has emerged as one of the competition’s fiercest bowlers, capable of delivering match-winning spells, especially on the pace-friendly Gabba pitch. Xavier Bartlett and Michael Neser form a lethal seam attack, while Matthew Kuhnemann and Mitchell Swepson provide spin options.
Strengths of Brisbane Heat BBL in 2024-25:
- Balanced Squad: A strong mix of experienced and emerging players.
- Pace Power: Spencer Johnson’s left-arm pace is a game-changer, especially on bouncy tracks.
- Experienced Overseas Players: Munro and Walter bring international pedigree and proven BBL success.
Challenges:
- Availability: Test stars like Khawaja, Labuschagne, and McSweeney will miss parts of the season due to international commitments.
- Middle-Order Consistency: Replacing Josh Brown’s explosive hitting won’t be easy.
- Spin Depth: While they have several spin options, Kuhnemann and Swepson might also be called up for national duty.
Player to Watch: Spencer Johnson
Emerging as one of the best bowlers in last season’s BBL, Spencer Johnson has continued his meteoric rise, recently claiming a five-wicket haul against Pakistan. His left-arm pace, bounce, and deadly yorkers make him one of the most feared bowlers in the tournament. Look out for his opening partnerships with Bartlett, setting the tone for the Heat’s bowling dominance.
Availability Updates:
- Overseas Players: Colin Munro, Paul Walter, and Tom Alsop are available for the entire season.
- Test Players: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, and Nathan McSweeney may be available toward the end of the regular season before departing for the Sri Lanka tour.
- Spin Duo: Matthew Kuhnemann and Mitchell Swepson could miss matches if selected for international duty.
Prediction: Title Contenders Again?
Brisbane Heat look well-equipped for another strong season, blending star power with rising talents. If their top-order holds firm and their bowling attack continues last season’s form, expect the Heat to be in the mix for back-to-back titles in BBL 2024-25.
Zainab Shafiq