Skipper Sutherland embracing Renegades' new chapter

With the Renegades preparing to call the MCG home and open the season in Chennai, India, Sutherland believes the opportunities ahead are ones the playing group is eager to embrace."The MCG is one of the most iconic sporting venues in the world and every player loves the chance to walk out there," he said.

"The atmosphere for last season's Derby was incredible and showed what Big Bash cricket can look like at the MCG.

"Knowing we'll have more opportunities to play in front of big crowds and create those moments with our fans is something the whole playing group is really looking forward to."

The upcoming season will also see the Renegades break new ground with a season-opening match in Chennai, giving players the chance to experience cricket in one of the sport's most passionate environments.
While administration and operations of the club have undergone change in recent months, Sutherland said the group is now firmly focused on the summer ahead.

"The boys are feeling a lot more settled," Sutherland added.

"It was tough a month ago; I had a lot of boys message me asking what was going on and I couldn't really give them any answers.

"That was definitely a bit of a stressful time but I'm feeling good about it now and looking forward to the season."

Despite the uncertainty that surrounded the club's future, Sutherland believes the situation has helped create a united mindset within the playing group.

"We've thought already about that fairytale of coming from the clouds and winning the tournament as the Melbourne Renegades … and with all the commotion that's happened behind the scenes, it would be incredible," he said.

As preparations continue for BBL|16, Sutherland says the focus remains on building a competitive squad, embracing the opportunities ahead and delivering a style of cricket that Renegades members and fans can be proud of.