NEWS
Follow UsEngland batter Harry Brook has pulled out of his upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) stint to manage his workload following his selection in the white-ball squad set to take on West Indies in the Caribbean in December.
Brook, who was one of the overseas draft picks for Melbourne Stars, was picked despite knowing that he would miss the end of the tournament, which would coincide with England's Test tour of India in January 2024. Brook has previously played for Hobart Hurricanes in 2021, where he managed just 44 runs at 6.28 from seven innings
Stars were hoping that the England star would be available for at least seven games, but his increased international commitments have forced him to withdraw.
"Naturally, we're disappointed that Harry has withdrawn from the BBL, but we understand his decision with his increased workload," Melbourne Stars General Manager Blair Crouch said.
"Given Harry was set to miss the opening 3 matches, the club had already signed a replacement player for that period.
"Currently, the coaching staff and list management team are discussing options for the remainder of the tournament and we look forward to announcing those signings once they have been finalised."
Liam Livingstone, who was Melbourne Renegades' No. 1 overseas draft pick last year, withdrew due to the same reason.
Perth Scorchers, too will have an issue with player availability as Zak Crawley has been picked in the ODI squad, while leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed is part of the ODI and T20I squads. The tour will comprise three ODIs and five T20Is, running from December 3 to 21. They are expected to be picked for the Test series in India the following month as well.
The BBL 2023-24 will kick start on December 7 and will go on till January 24.
