Photo Credit: Melbourne Renegades
I hope this letter finds you and your family well despite the uncertainty and the rapidly changing environment we find ourselves in.
Having spent so much time on the road during my playing career, some extra time with my wife and kids is always welcome but we’re also deep into planning for BBL|10 and our push to get back up into title contention.
I recently signed a new two-year agreement to continue on as Head Coach of our club. I am very grateful for the faith shown in me by our off-field team, our players and most importantly our members. BBL|09 wasn’t up to our expectations but as often happens, you end up learning more about yourself, the squad and your people in some adversity.
We saw new players emerge highlighted by our Player of the Season Beau Webster and youngsters like Will Sutherland, Sam Harper and Zak Evans. Shaun Marsh gave us a taste of his quality, while Kane Richardson, Aaron Finch and Cameron Boyce showed their class throughout the season. I am also confident that those players who may not have had the tournament they would have liked in BBL|09 still have a lot of upside and we will continue to back them in to perform at their usual high standards.
The attitude and commitment of the players never wavered and that was evident in the way we were able to finish off the season.
Since the final ball of BBL|09 we’ve been reviewing our playing list and looking at how we can continue to develop our squad. Our priorities include looking to bolster our bowling options and continuing to search the globe to ensure we get the most out of our international signings within the constraints of the salary cap.
Despite the international uncertainty, we are still planning for overseas players to be available, however we are prepared for all options in case international travel is still banned at the end of the year.
While we didn’t win the title in BBL|09, the support of you, our members, delivered the highest membership total in the competition for the third straight season. That is something we can all be immensely proud of and I know the playing group is deeply appreciative of.
Since joining the club, the amount of red in the crowd, the noise at our home games and the passion among our members were instantly noticeable. This support will be crucial in BBL|10.
For now though, please stay safe and look after your loved ones.
Michael Klinger
Head Coach
Melbourne Renegades
