Why has Big Bash League draft been moved earlier for 2025–26 season?

The Big Bash League (BBL 2025–26) is set to take place in mid-June (June 19) to ensure that some big names will be available for the upcoming tournament. The draft will be held between the World Test Championship (WTC) and the tour against the West Indies, which will start on June 25.

The BBL drafts typically take place in late August or early September, but it seems the player selections will occur earlier than expected in the Australian franchise T20 tournament. This adjustment has also been made to allow teams to secure leading overseas players for their squads. The draft order for both the BBL and the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) has also been confirmed, with the Brisbane Heat getting the first pick in the BBL and the Sydney Sixers receiving the first pick in the WBBL draft.

The defending champions of the BBL, Hobart Hurricanes, will have the seventh pick in the draft, while the WBBL champions, Melbourne Renegades, will also have the seventh pick. Alistair Dobson, General Manager of the Big Bash League, has openly discussed the decision to move the draft forward and suggested that it provides clarity for clubs to build their squads ahead of the highly competitive tournament.

“We’re confident bringing the draft date forward will ensure greater certainty for clubs as they build their squads in the lead-up to another highly competitive season,” Dobson was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Pre-signed overseas players ahead of the draft

Adelaide Strikers– N/A

Brisbane Heat– Colin Munro, Nadine de Klerk

Hobart Hurricanes– Chris Jordan, Lizelle Lee

Melbourne Renegades– Tim Seifert

Melbourne Stars– Tom Curran, Marizanne Kapp

Perth Scorchers– Finn Allen, Sophie Devine

Sydney Sixers– Amelia Kerr

Sydney Thunder– Sam Billings, Chamari Athapaththu

Read More: Big Bash League 2024-25 Winner Prize Money, Complete List of Award-Winners, Top Records & Stats – All You Need To Know

Big Bash overseas salary bands (AU$)

Platinum BBL: $360,000-420,000 | WBBL: $110,000

Gold BBL: $300,000 | WBBL: $90,000

Silver BBL: $200,000 | WBBL: $65,000

Bronze BBL: Up to $100,000 | WBBL: Up to $40,000

Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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