Publications
Partners
Former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum believes the country should be more involved in Australia's Twenty20 Big Bash League, should the coronavirus pandemic prevent other foreign players from featuring.
McCullum played eight seasons of BBL cricket with Brisbane Heat, and believes a team of New Zealanders would increase interest in the competition. He also suggested allowing Kiwi players to participate in the competition as 'local players'.
"If there is a shortage of international cricket, what an opportunity for the Big Bash, which if we are being honest has probably just tailed off a little bit of late, to really morph that back into Australia sporting fans' eyes," McCullum told SEN Radio.
"And I think what a great opportunity to maybe bring a New Zealand team into the Big Bash or use New Zealand players as local players because there may be a distinct lack of overseas players."
McCullum's suggestion comes after the Warriors team based in Tamworth was allowed to compete in the NRL.
Nevertheless, the cricket schedule in the two neighbouring countries might make such a move impossible, as New Zealand Cricket's (NZC) T20 Super Smash tends to overlap with Big Bash League.
Previously, Kiwi players had to be available for either the national team or their T20 side instead of the Big Bash, unless a 'No Objection Certificate' was obtained from NZC.
McCullum, though, believes there is a compromise to be made.
"[It will need] a little bit of creative thinking," he continued.
"It may be just for one season but we have to prepare for the long-term if you are going to grow the game."
- TEAMtalk media
