After initially giving the all clear for Sydney Thunder player Andre Russell to use a special black bat in the Big Bash, Cricket Australia has now banned it.
Head of the Big Bash Anthony Everard confirmed that the West Indian’s bat had in fact marked the ball during his innings.
“The Match Officials provided feedback to Cricket Australia that the bat used by Andre left black marks on the match ball,” Everard said.
“As a result, we have decided to withdraw our approval for Andre to use the bat.”
“Should Andre or any other BBL or WBBL player wish to use a bat with a different colouring solution, they will be permitted to do so subject to Cricket Australia being satisfied that the bat won’t compromise the integrity of the game.”
Russell only faced 7 deliveries in his total of 9 and Sixers wicketkeeper Brad Haddin voiced his concerns while being mic’d up about the ball being marked.
“With that black bat, the ball, if you have a close look at it, it has four black marks on it,” Haddin told Channel Ten.
It’s not the first time different coloured bats have been used in the Big Bash.
Chris Gayle famously wielded a gold bat last season while Aiden Blizzard also showed off a green piece of willow.
Cricket Australia has explained why it backtracked on the Andre Russell ruling.
“A player can use a coloured bat subject to approval,” a spokesperson said.
“CA retains the right to withdraw aproval in its absolute discretion.”
Build your own fantasy cricket team and put it to the test with Draftstars daily fantasy competitions. Pick your match, pick your team and watch the points roll in to take out cash prizes on each match. What are you really gambling with? Set a deposit limit.
Brisbane have claimed their first Big Bash League title in 11 years after their band of late bloomers lifted the Heat to a 54-run…
Sydney Sixers captain Moises Henriques will play the BBL final while battling COVID-19, as his side won the toss and decided to bowl first…
It’s been a blockbuster season of BBL cricket this Aussie summer with attendances up across the Country, some amazing highlights and the two best…
The Sydney Sixers will host the Big Bash League decider after captain Moises Henriques' half-century and a five-wicket haul from Ben Dwarshuis secured a…
Sydney Sixers captain Moises Henriques has helped his team avert a late disaster and secure the coveted BBL finals double-chance, beating the Perth Scorchers…
David Warner's Sydney Thunder solo mission has proven in vain, as the Sixers booked their spot in the Big Bash League finals win a…
