In the high-stakes world of the Big Bash League, the right overseas import can be the difference between lifting the trophy and an early exit. For the Perth Scorchers, the league's most successful franchise, their foreign recruits have played pivotal roles in building a dynasty.
We've undertaken the task of ranking every single import to have played for the Scorchers, based on their overall impact on the team's fortunes. The list is a mix of legendary match-winners, solid contributors, and a few who left barely a trace.
The Undisputed Champions & Core Contributors
At the very top sits Englishman Liam Livingstone. His explosive 2020-21 season was nothing short of phenomenal, amassing 426 runs at a staggering strike rate of 182.05. He didn't just score runs; he demoralised bowling attacks and was a key factor in driving the Scorchers to the final that year, setting a benchmark for power-hitting in the BBL.
Right beside him is the ever-reliable Michael Klinger. Although not a traditional 'overseas' player by the end, his initial signing as a marquee import was a masterstroke. Klinger's calm leadership and consistent run-scoring were foundational to the Scorchers' early identity and their first two BBL titles. He remains a club icon.
The category of brilliant but brief stays with the dynamic Jason Roy. In just a handful of games in BBL|10, the English opener showcased his devastating ability, including a blistering half-century in the Challenger final to propel the Scorchers into the decider. His impact, while short, was incredibly significant at the business end of the tournament.
Solid Performers and Fan Favourites
This tier is filled with players who delivered strong value. South African great Jacques Kallis brought immense class and a wealth of experience in the inaugural season, helping set professional standards. English wicketkeeper-batter Craig Kieswetter was a fierce competitor and a vital part of the BBL|04 championship side, remembered for his fearless approach.
Pakistan's Yasir Arafat was a tremendously skilful and clever bowler who excelled in the Scorchers' defensive schemes, taking 34 wickets across two seasons. More recently, Laurie Evans etched his name into Scorchers folklore with a player-of-the-match century in the BBL|11 final, a definitive knock under extreme pressure.
Others in this reliable bracket include the versatile David Willey, the crafty Andrew Tye (before becoming a local), and the explosive James Vince, who provided crucial fireworks at the top of the order.
The Forgettable and the Unfulfilled
Unfortunately, not every signing worked out. The lower end of the list features players who, for various reasons, failed to make a mark. England's Paul Collingwood, a legendary figure, was well past his prime during his stint. South Africa's Albie Morkel managed only one game, while West Indian Kieron Pollard had a surprisingly quiet tournament by his own lofty standards.
Some promising signings were derailed by injury or circumstance. Pakistani quick Mohammad Asif never took the field due to a doping ban. England's Ian Bell and Rikki Clarke had minimal impact during short tenures. More recent recruits like Chris Jordan, despite his world-class fielding, proved expensive with the ball, and Zak Crawley's single season was underwhelming.
The ranking reveals a clear formula for the Scorchers' success. Their best imports either possessed explosive power to change a game (Livingstone, Roy) or brought a hardened, professional temperament that complemented their famed team culture (Klinger, Kallis). The misses often involved players who were either in decline or couldn't adapt their game to the unique BBL conditions and pressures.
As the Scorchers look to the future, the legacy of their overseas stars remains a crucial chapter in their story of sustained excellence. Choosing the right import continues to be one of the most critical decisions for any BBL franchise.
