The 13th edition of the Big Bash League (BBL) is set to kick off on December 7, 2023, with a thrilling clash between the Brisbane Heat and the Melbourne Stars. As the new season approaches, teams are actively scouting potential additions to their squads, aiming for success in both the BBL and Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL). A total of 50 players have been placed in the prestigious platinum bracket, featuring some of the biggest names in cricket, such as Nicholas Pooran, Haris Rauf, Harry Brook, and Zak Crawley for the BBL, and star players like Harmanpreet Kaur, Marizanne Kapp, and Alice Capsey for the WBBL
Interestingly, the platinum list in the BBL boasts a significant presence of English players, with 14 cricketers from England included, making them the most represented nationality in this category. This reflects the exceptional performance of the English national team across all formats of international cricket. However, there is uncertainty regarding the availability of these players for the entire BBL season due to England’s commitments. In December, England is scheduled to play a white-ball series against the West Indies, followed by a five-match Test series against India starting in January. Consequently, players like Brook and Crawley might miss a substantial part of the BBL season, which is scheduled to run from December 7 to January 24.
One notable development for players in the BBL is the significant increase in salary bands compared to the previous edition. Platinum players, for instance, will earn AUD 420,000, up from AUD 340,000 in the previous year. However, this substantial amount will be paid in full only if the player makes themselves available for the entire BBL season. If a player participates in only 10 matches, they will earn AUD 400,000, and for nine matches, the earnings will be AUD 380,000. Any cricketer playing eight or fewer matches will receive AUD 360,000, regardless of the number of games they play. Meanwhile, gold players will earn AUD 300,000, silver AUD 200,000, and bronze AUD 100,000.
One potential complication in player availability arises from the South African T20 league (SA20), which begins on January 10. Some players may opt to participate in this tournament during the closing stages of the BBL. Additionally, Pakistan also has a few commitments that clash with the BBL schedule.
In a significant change for the WBBL, overseas players will be selected through a draft system for the first time. Platinum players in the WBBL will earn AUD 110,000, gold players AUD 90,000, silver players AUD 65,000, and bronze players AUD 40,000. Players who choose the direct nomination route will be limited to earning a maximum of 95% of the silver category earnings. The WBBL is scheduled to run from October 19 to December 2.
In conclusion, the upcoming BBL and WBBL seasons promise excitement and competitiveness with the inclusion of top-notch international players in the platinum bracket. However, the uncertainty surrounding player availability due to international commitments and the attractiveness of other T20 leagues could add an element of unpredictability to the tournaments. Nevertheless, the increased salary bands and the introduction of a draft system in the WBBL signify a positive step forward in promoting and rewarding talent in Australian cricket. Fans can look forward to another thrilling season of T20 cricket Down Under.
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