MITCHELL JOHNSON: Josh Inglis’ absence a major blow for Scorchers as Cooper Connolly stars with bat

Perth Scorchers have long been a shining example in the Big Bash League, consistently demonstrating excellence and a commitment to nurturing local talent while winning five championships to become the competition’s most successful team.

So it’s understandable many fans have felt disappointed with this season despite almost securing an unlikely spot in the finals thanks to another terrific display from Cooper Connolly on Saturday night.

His heroics with the bat put Perth in the hunt before the Stars beat the league-leading Hurricanes on Sunday to pip the Scorchers for the last finals berth.

Regardless of the late twist with a string of results falling their way, a record of 4-6 wasn’t the outcome they would have hoped for at the start of the summer.

Watching the season unfold, I really felt it wasn’t just one thing that affected the Scorchers, but a combination of factors and losing those key moments that can swing either way.

The back-and-forth nature of their matches and the momentum shifts within them were quite striking. At the Melbourne Renegades game at Optus Stadium, I could really feel the shifts in energy, and it seemed like the Scorchers were riding the ups and downs with the home crowd in the key moments.

It’s challenging to sit down and write about a team with such a competitive spirit and try to pinpoint where things went awry. Twenty20 cricket can be unpredictable and many factors can influence a team’s performance, including some outside their control.

The frustrations with the Scorchers’ batting this summer are certainly valid, but the decisions made with bowling line-ups and bowling changes can’t be overlooked either.

Overall, they lost the little battles they normally win. Some of the players were simply below their best or didn’t live up to expectations in the case of the new overseas imports.

English pair Keaton Jennings and Matty Hurst were both discarded during the tournament, while Kiwi Finn Allen had a couple of good innings but only got to 20 twice in the first nine games.

At least he was able to solve the wicketkeeping problem. The biggest loss for the season was Josh Inglis, who played just two games due to Test squad selection and injury.

The Scorchers really felt his absence. Inglis has a wealth of experience and an honest understanding of the game, and his newfound confidence rubs off on the team. Missing out on his explosive batting at the top of the order was a significant setback. His leadership and skills behind the stumps were also sorely missed.

You can see how much the overall energy lifts when he’s keeping, and it really makes a difference. His presence provides confidence, which is crucial during tight moments in games. All-rounder Aaron Hardie was well down on form with the bat and didn’t bowl until the final match due to injury.

The bowling group didn’t have their usual impact, particularly at the end of the innings. AJ Tye is Perth’s all-time leading wicket-taker but went at more than 10 runs an over. Was it just an off season, or has he fallen behind the youth of the team and the pace of T20 cricket? It raises the question of whether the 38-year-old’s age is a factor because his bowling impact just hasn’t matched what we’ve come to expect from him.

It sounds like multiple senior Scorchers players are considering moves to rival clubs and it’s natural to wonder if that has affected team unity — which has long been such a strength.

With the futures of Jason Behrendorff, Ashton Agar and Tye unclear, a shake-up could certainly impact the team because they have all been crucial components of the bowling line-up.

Agar’s departure would be particularly significant. He offers a well-rounded game with his batting, bowling, and leading from the front on the field.

However, this is professional cricket and players must look out for their career advancement. Agar has been a loyal member of the club and the WACA but it would be understandable if he felt the need to move east to play on pitches that complement his bowling style.

The contracting and trade period is a tricky situation but also an opportunity for Perth to evolve and rebuild moving forward.

This season has really highlighted the need for the Scorchers to reassess where they stand and consider making some changes. It’s always a tricky balance when deciding how long to keep a successful group together. The core group has been together for a significant period and some players might be passing the peak of their careers.

This presents an opportunity for reflection and growth, as sometimes comfort can lead to stagnation. However, the emergence of young talent is a positive sign, providing fresh energy and potential that can reinvigorate the team. Embracing these changes can lead to exciting new possibilities for everyone involved.

It was fantastic to see Cooper Connolly develop as a batter this season, taking on responsibility and winning matches. His growth has clearly paid off given his selection in the Test squad for Sri Lanka.

Opener Sam Fanning and quick Mahli Beardman are also emerging. The commitment to developing local talent works and will continue to benefit the club as it moves forward.

Watching Nick Hobson’s calmness and control while belting the ball was thrilling and really got the fans excited.

And who can forget the visual effect of seeing Lance Morris’s deliveries whizzing past batters, smashing into the keeper’s gloves? He is an electrifying sight at full flight.

As a former Scorchers player, I truly want the best for the team and hope to see them dominate the BBL again. Regardless of what happens on Sunday to decide their finals fate, the history and dedication of everyone at the club gives hope for a bright future ahead. With the right strategy and foresight, the Scorchers can bounce back to their best next season.