In a significant boost to their spin-bowling stocks, the Perth Scorchers have moved swiftly to sign Western Australian off-spinner Corey Rocchiccioli as a local replacement player. The move comes after paceman Jhye Richardson was called into the Australian Test squad.
Scorchers Bolster Attack After Richardson Call-Up
The signing, confirmed on Wednesday, 24 December 2025, provides the Scorchers with immediate depth following the loss of a key fast bowler. Rocchiccioli, 28, is now in contention for a potential Big Bash League debut on Boxing Day, when the Scorchers host the Hobart Hurricanes at Perth Stadium.
Scorchers high performance manager Kade Harvey highlighted the logic behind the recruitment. "With Jhye being called up to the Australian squad, we felt it was an opportune time to add Corey to the 18-man squad," Harvey said. He praised Rocchiccioli's consistent first-class performances for WA, noting his recent Laurie Sawle Medal win as the state's best player last Sheffield Shield season.
Rocchiccioli's Path to the Scorchers
This marks a return to the BBL for the tall spinner, who has previous experience with both Melbourne franchises, the Stars and the Renegades. His signing is not just based on his red-ball prowess. The Scorchers' management have been impressed with his development in the shorter format.
"He has also worked hard on his white ball craft, and we were really impressed with the role he played in the Top End T20 Series," Harvey added. The move follows a high-scoring defeat to the Brisbane Heat, where the Scorchers failed to defend a target of 257, prompting a review of their bowling options.
Boxing Day Debit in the Frame
The club has indicated they will consider handing Rocchiccioli his purple debut in Friday night's crucial fixture. His inclusion offers the team greater strategic flexibility, allowing them to potentially play two specialist spinners depending on the pitch conditions at Optus Stadium.
For Rocchiccioli, the opportunity provides a perfect chance to showcase his skills on the national stage after missing selection in Australia's Test squad. His addition strengthens the Scorchers' claim as one of the most adaptable and deep squads in the competition, perfectly timed for the busy festive period of the BBL calendar.
