Jason Behrendorff will miss the entire 2026-27 Big Bash League season after undergoing shoulder surgery. The Melbourne Renegades confirmed the development on their official website, stating that the club will seek a replacement player for the left-arm pacer.
Behrendorff, who is 36 years old, remains contracted to the Renegades beyond this season and is expected to return for the following campaign. Despite his unavailability for the season, he will stay connected with the squad throughout the season. Behrendorff acknowledged the setback but expressed confidence in his recovery. He also outlined his intentions off the field.
"It's disappointing to miss a BBL season, but I've got a clear plan with the medical team, and my focus is on getting my shoulder right so I can return to full fitness. I'm looking forward to supporting the team and staying involved throughout the season, being able to work closely with the bowlers and coaching staff. It also provides an opportunity to work with the Renegade media team and broadcasters to share a different view of the game for our fans," Behrendorff said, as quoted by the West Australian.
How significant is Behrendorff's BBL career?
Behrendorff has been among the most prominent pace bowlers in Big Bash League history. He made his debut for the Perth Scorchers in 2012 and went on to become a four-time BBL champion with the club, establishing himself as a key figure in their bowling attack across multiple title-winning campaigns.
He has accumulated 140 wickets in BBL history, a tally that places him second only to AJ Tye among Perth Scorchers all-time wicket-takers. In his final season with the Scorchers before departing, he was their leading wicket-taker. When Perth Scorchers could not guarantee him a contract, Behrendorff signed a three-year deal with the Melbourne Renegades, marking one of the notable moves in BBL free agency.
This is not the first time Behrendorff has been sidelined by injury. He previously missed a season with a stress fracture and was absent for another after undergoing spinal surgery. The current shoulder setback represents the third significant injury-related absence of his BBL career.
What will Behrendorff's role be during the season?
Although Behrendorff will not be available to play, he has made clear he intends to remain an active presence around the Renegades setup. His involvement is expected to cover working alongside the bowling group and the coaching staff during the season, as well as contributing through the club's media and broadcast channels.
The Melbourne Renegades are in the process of identifying a replacement player to fill his spot in the squad for the upcoming season. The identity of that replacement has not yet been confirmed.
