BBL clubs allowed to sign six overseas stars for 2019-20 season

However, only two overseas players will be allowed in the playing XI. © Getty

Big Bash League clubs can sign up to six overseas players for the 2019-20 season, it was confirmed on Saturday (May 11). Even though only two players can maximum feature in the XI and in the 18-man roster, as it has been the case over the years, the clubs can now offer contracts to six players, two more from the previous campaigns.

Any of these four players can be named as replacements throughout the course of the season. However, a club's replacement request will be at the discretion of the BBL Technical Committee. The decision has been taken after reviewing the rules of the tournament following the conclusion of the 2018-19 season. This new rule will allow top players to sign up for short stints during a busy international calendar.

"We've considered feedback from our fans and worked with relevant stakeholders of the game to implement changes that will continue to improve the competition in 2019/20," Anthony Everard, Cricket Australia Executive General Manager Fan Engagement, said.

"The ACA, BBL clubs and our broadcast partners have been an integral part of that, leading to the introduction of each club being allowed to contract up to six overseas players in BBL|09. The maximum number of overseas players permitted in a club's squad will remain at two, but there is now increased flexibility to contract up to six players throughout the season and rotate them in and out as required."