Star English batter Harry Brook has pulled out of the upcoming edition of the Big Bash League (BBL). The reason for this has been the youngster’s ever-increasing international commitments.
It is worth noting that Brook was the second pick for Melbourne Stars in the tournament’s overseas draft. Furthermore, Stars signed Brook despite knowing that he would be unavailable in the latter stages of the tournament due to England’s tour of India. However, him missing out entirely could prove to be a big blow for Stars.
Brook was set to join the side for seven matches after England’s series against India; however, due to his addition to England’s white-ball squads for the Caribbean tour in December, Brook will be unable to fulfill his BBL responsibilities.
Naturally we’re disappointed: Blair Crouch
Talking of Brook not being able to play for Stars in the BBL, the franchise’s general manager Blair Crouch, stated that it is disappointing for the entire franchise. However, he stated that they understood his increased international commitments.
“Naturally, we’re disappointed that Harry has withdrawn from the BBL, but we understand his decision with his increased workload,” Crouch was quoted as saying by Melbourne Stars.
“We obviously rate Harry extremely highly and we would have loved to have seen him at the MCG alongside Glenn Maxwell and Marcus Stoinis this summer. We wish him all the best with his upcoming international commitments,” he added.
With Brook missing, Crouch revealed that, due to the franchise knowing that Brook would be missing out on some matches, they already had a replacement in mind.
“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,” Crouch said.