The Hurricanes, along with the Melbourne Stars, are the only two franchises to fail to win a BBL title since the T20 competition began in 2011 despite consistent performances. They have been runners-up twice and have never finished last – Adelaide Strikers are the only other team to have avoided the wooden spoon.

But new captain Ellis hopes to lead the Hurricanes to a drought-breaking title. Ellis, 29, re-signed with the Hurricanes earlier this year and for the past five seasons he has been their trusted spearhead alongside speedster Riley Meredith.

“The Hurricanes are a franchise that I appreciate very much and they have done a lot for me,” Ellis said. “So to have the opportunity to lead and hopefully bring some silverware home to Tasmania is really exciting.”

He takes the reins from Wade, who had been linked with a move to Melbourne Renegades in the offseason before signing a contract extension until at least 2026.

Wade will captain Australia during the five-match T20I series against India after the 2023 ODI World Cup. Ellis is also part of the team, which features several players on the sidelines of Australia’s white-ball teams.

His death bowling prowess, where Ellis deceives through sly, slower deliveries, makes him an intriguing option ahead of next year’s T20 World Cup. Ellis, who is not part of Australia’s ODI World Cup squad, has failed to find the same success in 50-over cricket with ten wickets at 38.20 in eight matches.

“He embodies everything the Hurricanes stand for: a great work ethic, resilience and a fantastic attitude towards the game and his teammates,” said Hurricanes head coach Jeff Vaughan.

The Hurricanes begin their season on December 11 against the Sydney Sixers in Launceston.