In fact, we have selected two teams.  The first one is a team of Australia’s finest and will explain why players have been picked in this article.  The second one is a team of overseas superstars so look out for that.

How do you go about picking a team of the decade from the BBL’s history? Firstly, reputation has been ignored unless it has been earned in the competition. Secondly, looking back of the statistics to see who has performed in the BBL. Thirdly, and arguably the most contentious criterion, is making sure that the team has balance.

With criteria set, and caveats already offered, let’s see who made it into the Australian BBL team of the decade:

D'Arcy Short – Hobart Hurricanes

Batting ave 45.84, SR 145.53, HS 122no; Bowling ave 35.13, ER 8.45, BB 2-17

An explosive opener, Short has been one of the most destructive batters in the BBL. Last season, he topped the run scoring list as his opening partnership with Matthew Wade delivered many fast starts.

 

Usman Khawaja – Sydney Thunder

Batting ave 46.95, SR 132.35, HS 109no

Khawaja has returned to the Thunder for BBL09. He may have lost his international place but BBL fans have benefitted. A proven run maker in T20, Khawaja is a must at the top of the innings.

 

Shaun Marsh – Perth Scorchers / Melbourne Renegades

Batting ave 49.41, SR 130.38, HS 99no

Another proven batter in the BBL, Marsh’s consistent run scoring is highlighted by his average. He’s leading the averages across the BBL (min 10 innings) and warrants his place purely for consistency.

 

Glenn Maxwell – Melbourne Renegades / Melbourne Stars

Batting ave 31.60, SR 153.38, HS 84; Bowling ave 33.00, ER 7.71, BB 3-26

Maxwell combines a vast array of shots, to all parts of the ground, with handy spin bowling. If Maxi stays at the crease, the scoreboard flicks over a rate of knots. It’s why Maxwell went for so much money in the recent IPL auction, he’s a match-winner.

 

Brad Hodge (capt) – Melbourne Stars / Melbourne Renegades / Adelaide Strikers

Batting ave 42.78, SR 134.34, HS 88

Having played 50 games with three teams, Brad Hodge’s batting and captaincy underpins the team. With 11 fifties and only one duck, Hodge’s consistency gets him the nod over others.