HYDERABAD:There are reports in the Australian media that Indian players were in demand for the inaugural women’s T20 Big Bash League (WBBL) that will be held in December and January next year.
Melbourne Stars, one of the franchises, also approached Indian captain Mithali Raj and all-rounder Jhulan Goswami in this regard. Since the Big Bash League is clashing with the Indian domestic and international schedule, the two are unlikely to participate in the event.
Mithali confirmed that she was approached by the Melbourne Stars. “It is unlikely that we’ll be available. Apart from that, our team will play a series in Australia around that time,” said the 32-year-old.
According to the Australian media, a majority of the overseas players in the WBBL will be from England and New Zealand. Some of the top England players such as Charlotte Edwards, Sarah Taylor and Katherine Brunt have already signed for different franchises.
The WBBL could be in for some disappointment if the experienced Mithali — who has played in 49 T20s — and Jhulan decline.
Mithali is among the leading run-getters in the world, while Jhulan — who has played 46 T20s — is regarded as a top-class all-rounder. She is a very useful medium pacer and a hard-hitting batter.
None of the Indians have participated in the men’s Big Bash League so far.