Scorchers confirm coaching change for Guyana tournament; Guyana Amazon Warriors and Desert Vipers among teams locked in, two more franchises yet to be announced
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Simon Katich will take charge of Perth Scorchers as head coach for the 2026 Global Super League (GSL), stepping in for Adam Voges during the July tournament in Guyana. The temporary appointment comes as Voges is committed to his assistant coaching role with Trent Rockets in the Hundred, creating a scheduling clash.
Katich Returns to Familiar Territory
Katich, a former Scorchers captain, led the franchise to its maiden Big Bash League (BBL) title in the 2013–14 season. In recent years, he has remained closely connected with the Perth-based franchise, serving as a list management consultant. His coaching résumé also includes a five-year stint with Manchester Originals in the Hundred, further strengthening his credentials for the short-term assignment.
With extensive franchise coaching experience and a deep understanding of the Scorchers’ culture, Katich’s appointment ensures continuity as the BBL champions prepare for international competition.
Scorchers Set for Busy Global Window
The Global Super League 2026 is scheduled to run from July 23 to August 1, directly clashing with the Hundred but fitting between Major League Cricket (MLC) and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) in the global T20 calendar.
Perth Scorchers qualified for the five-team invitational tournament after winning the Big Bash League this season. However, assembling a full-strength squad may prove challenging. Several players are expected to be involved either in the Hundred or in Australia’s upcoming Test series against Bangladesh in mid-August.
For contractual reasons, the team is expected to compete under the name “Perth Scorchers XI,” similar to the arrangement used by Hobart Hurricanes in the previous edition.
Confirmed Teams and Possible Absentees
The 2026 GSL lineup currently includes:
- Perth Scorchers
- Guyana Amazon Warriors (hosts)
- Desert Vipers (ILT20 champions)
Two additional teams are yet to be confirmed. Reports suggest that SA20 champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape were invited but are unlikely to participate.
The tournament, launched in 2024, continues to grow its international footprint, attracting leading T20 franchises across continents.
Broader Implications for the BBL
The Global Super League may also serve as a strategic networking platform for the Scorchers and Western Australia Cricket Association officials. Cricket Australia is reportedly exploring the possibility of partial privatisation of BBL franchises, similar to the England and Wales Cricket Board’s model for the Hundred.
Given Perth Scorchers’ sustained on-field success and strong crowd support at home, the franchise is widely regarded as an attractive investment prospect should the BBL move toward private ownership.
Tournament Backing and Criticism
The GSL has strong backing from the Guyanese government, underlining its ambition to position Guyana as a global cricket destination. However, the tournament has faced criticism from climate activists due to its title sponsorship by oil major ExxonMobil, with some labelling it a “sportswashing” initiative.
Despite the controversy, the 2026 edition promises high-quality competition, global exposure, and another opportunity for franchise cricket to expand its international influence.
