Sydney Sixers coach Greg Shipperd says the table-topping defending champions won't let uncertainty clouding the SCG stall their push for another Big Bash crown.

Brisbane Heat captain Chris Lynn says his side has learnt from "character-building" close losses as they aim for five straight wins to claim the BBL title.

Star paceman Jhye Richardson says his lack of long-form cricket means that selectors were right to pick him for the T20 tour of NZ instead of the Test series.

Cricket Australia has named a 13-man team of the tournament after asking all eight BBL coaches to cast their votes.

Englishman Alex Hales has crunched a record 30 sixes during the BBL season and will have a target on his back during the finals.

Moises Henriques has enjoyed an immediate impact on his return from Test squad duties as the ladder-leading Sydney Sixers eye another BBL title.