Ab de Villiers might land up playing in Australia for the Sydney Thunders, as the franchise is looking for a replacement for their banned star player Andre Russell.
Russell, who has been banned for 12 months for pleading guilty for doping had a major role in the success of the team and his absence would impact their performance for sure. The franchise has lined up names like Eoin Morgan, Carlos Braithwaite and Ab de Villiers as Andre Russell’s replacement.
Ab de Villiers who did not participate in the recently concluded Test series against England might hang his shoes in the longest format of the game to focus on the limited-over format which means he will be free during the Big Bash League.
Ab de Villiers plays for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL and has been the core of the franchise since becoming a part of the team. Another reason why De Villiers is the favourite to join the team is his relationship with the club’s coach Paddy Upton, who is also a South African.
Another player who can make it to the team is England’s ODI captain Eoin Morgan, who has had a stint with the club in past. Sydney Thunders have also short listed another West Indian, Carlos Braithwaite for his all round capabilities.
Sydney Thunders new general manager feels these are exciting times for the league and the club as the players have signed an MOU with Cricket Australia. This also means that the women’s player can sign multiple year contracts with the franchise which gives both the players and the club a sense of security. The coaches can work in a better way, as they can plan for the future with the same set of players.