Cricket Australia has announced an overhaul of the Big Bash League contracting rules, that could see the likes of Steve Smith and Pat Cummins sign deals even if their international commitments prevent them turning out for their clubs.
It’s part of a massive injection of money into the competition, with the salary cap rising from $1.9 million to $3 million. Top overseas players signed in the draft can now earn $420,000, an increase of 23.5 per cent from last summer.
The eight BBL clubs will each be able to sign two players who hold CA contracts, and put them on what will be known as a “Marquee Supplementary List”, with the players able to be added to the squad when international commitments allow.
READ MORE: Aussie golf ‘shame’ exposed by LIV success
READ MORE: Father’s ploy to lure disgruntled Bulldog to rival
READ MORE: Tedesco fumes at security after shirtless fan’s shocking move
In recent years BBL teams have been reluctant to use up a spot in their squad for a player whose availability might be severely restricted by duties with the national side, preferring instead to sign players who will be available for the majority of matches.
Under the new contracting rules, each club must have a minimum of six players earning $200,000 or more, while the combined total of those six contracts must be at least $1.7m.
WBBL players will also get a pay boost, with the top players having the potential to earn over $100,000, and the average retainer doubling to $54,000.
“The new player contracting rules and uplift in total payment pools will allow both the WBBL and BBL to remain internationally competitive in an increasingly dynamic market,” said Cricket Australia’s Alistair Dobson.
“The introduction of marquee player thresholds is instrumental in ensuring we continue to attract top-class overseas talent while rewarding our home-grown stars.
“We’re excited to be launching a WBBL overseas player draft and welcome the return of the draft to BBL. With top international players able to earn more in the Big Bash Leagues than ever before, there’s no doubt clubs will have a high calibre group of players to choose from.”
Dobson said the ability for clubs to sign Australia’s leading players was an exciting development.
“A key focus has been to further optimise the ability and opportunity for BBL teams to sign Australian contracted players onto their lists.
“The variable availability of these players from season to season due to national commitments, has often made it challenging for clubs to contract these players given impacts on salary caps and squad lists.
“These challenges have been addressed through specific mechanisms available to clubs and we hope to see many of Australia’s top talent play in the Big Bash.”
For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!
‘The final frontier’: How young gun’s debut, captain’s injury sparked Australia’s iconic 2004 series win in India
For all the latest Sports News Click Here
For the latest news and updates, follow us on Google News.
