During the Big Bash League overseas player draft, Pakistani cricketers and fast bowlers were highly sought after, with seven players from Pakistan set to participate in the T20 tournament. Shaheen Shah Afridi was picked as the No. 1 choice by the Brisbane Heat, while Haris Rauf returns to the Melbourne Stars for his fifth season. In the WBBL Draft, England’s Sophia Dunkley was signed by the Sydney Sixers, allowing the Adelaide Strikers to pick Sophie Ecclestone.
Luke Wood, a left-armed seamer from England, was a surprise pick by the Adelaide Strikers in the draft. Laurie Evans rejoins the Perth Scorchers after a successful stint with the Melbourne Renegades. Rehan Ahmed, a rising star from England, was signed by the Hobart Hurricanes. Paige Schofield, another English player, was chosen by the Perth Scorchers in the WBBL draft.
However, some high-profile players missed out on deals, including Jofra Archer, Liam Livingstone, and Lauren Bell. Archer’s uncertain availability due to potential Ashes selection, Livingstone’s recent dip in form, and Bell’s exclusion despite her previous performances were reasons for their snubbing in the draft.
Overall, the draft saw a mix of experienced and upcoming talent being selected for the upcoming Big Bash League and Women’s Big Bash League seasons.
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