An outstanding 498 cricketers from across the globe have nominated for the Weber WBBL and KFC BBL Overseas Player Drafts, as the Big Bash League today revealed the full list of players who have put their names forward for consideration.
122 players from 19 countries nominated for the first Weber WBBL Draft, while the BBL|13 Draft has grown on last year’s with 376 players from 29 countries nominating.
Of the 122 WBBL Draft nominations six players have opted to utilise the mechanism, unique to the WBBL, which allows them to choose to not be available for selection and to sign directly with a WBBL Club afterwards.
The full list of nominees for each Draft can be found via the links below.
Weber WBBL|09 Overseas Player Draft nominations
KFC BBL|13 Overseas Player Draft nominations
Alistair Dobson, Cricket Australia's General Manager of Big Bash Leagues, is available on request. Contact Kate Warnock - 0419 316 135
International superstars Rashid Khan and Deepti Sharma are two of the final nominations to be announced, as Clubs work through their final preparations ahead of the Drafts happening this Sunday September 3.
Indian cricket sensation Deepti Sharma helps round out the list of stellar nominations for the inaugural Weber WBBL Draft. A world-class all-rounder and one of the WPL’s top earners, Sharma is not eligible for retention and is likely to catch the attention of WBBL clubs.
After being selected as a Platinum pick by the Adelaide Strikers in the BBL|12 Draft, spin bowler Rashid Khan has put his name forward again this year. With over 556 T20 wickets to his name, Khan is widely regarded as one of the best T20 bowlers ever.
Alistair Dobson, Cricket Australia’s General Manager of Big Bash Leagues, said:
"We are thrilled by the response to this year’s WBBL and BBL Drafts. The sheer volume and calibre of nominations for both Drafts speaks to the appeal of the Big Bash League for players from across the globe and reinforces the competition's reputation for showcasing top-tier talent and providing unparalleled entertainment.
“With the uplift in Big Bash player payment pools this season, top international players set to earn more than ever before highlighting the Big Bash League’s continued commitment to fostering a world-class competition.
“On behalf of the League and our Clubs, we extend thanks to all players and their agents around the world for their support of the Drafts and the Big Bash Leagues.
“We look forward with great anticipation to the Drafts this Sunday.”
The Weber WBBL and KFC BBL Overseas Player Drafts will be broadcast on Fox Cricket and Kayo Sports on Sunday, September 3, with the WBBL Draft kicking off at 5.30pm AEST and immediately followed by the BBL Draft at 7.00pm AEST.
The players selected for the Platinum category of each Draft will be announced this Wednesday August 30.