The Perth Scorchers have received a massive boost ahead of their Big Bash League finals campaign, with confirmation that their Australian T20 World Cup stars will be available for the entire post-season.
Full Squad Available for Qualifier and Beyond
National selector George Bailey confirmed on Monday that all players selected for Australia's upcoming T20 World Cup squad will remain with their BBL franchises until their campaigns conclude. This is a significant win for the five-time champions, the Scorchers, who have three key players in the national squad: captain Mitch Marsh, wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis, and rising all-rounder Cooper Connolly.
The news, which was first hinted at last week, was made official as the Australian squad for three warm-up matches in Pakistan was announced. The Scorchers have named an unchanged team for their crucial Qualifier final against arch-rivals the Sydney Sixers on Tuesday, with young gun Luke Holt retaining his spot.
Flexible Plans for World Cup Preparation
A 17-man Australian squad is scheduled to depart for Pakistan on January 24 for matches in Lahore, ahead of the World Cup which begins on February 7. Australia's first match is against Ireland on February 11.
However, Bailey indicated a flexible approach, stating that players involved in the BBL grand final on January 25 will stay behind. This means if the Scorchers defeat the Sixers and host the decider in Perth, their international trio will be present.
"It's pretty fluid. It'll depend on probably who's there - who's playing in that final," Bailey said. "The majority of the group leave on the 24th, and then as players start to finish up the rest of their BBL campaigns, they'll jump on some different flights. We're pretty open to the fact - mainly Game 1 in Pakistan - that it might have a bit of a different look."
Boost for Scorchers and Other Finals Contenders
The policy extends beyond the Scorchers, providing a boost to other finals contenders. New Zealand import Finn Allen is also available for the Scorchers right through to the grand final, as he is part of the Black Caps' World Cup team.
For the Sydney Sixers, all-rounder Jack Edwards (named in the Pakistan series squad) will also delay his departure if his team advances. Hobart Hurricanes quick Nathan Ellis is being rested from the Pakistan series but will be available to play if the reigning champions reach the decider.
However, not all players will benefit. Hurricanes powerhouse Tim David will not be fit in time for the finals and will head to Pakistan early. Melbourne Stars veterans Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell will also stay in Australia if their team secures a maiden grand final berth.
Scorchers young fast bowler Mahli Beardman, named in the Pakistan series squad but not the World Cup, will also see out the BBL season before flying out.
