BCB bars Steve Smith from participating in BPL 2019
The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has decided against the inclusion of Steve Smith in the upcoming Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). This comes after the franchises expressed their reservations regarding the Australian cricketer, citing a by-law violation. Smith was roped in by Comilla Victorians as a replacement for Sri Lankan cricketer Asela Gunaratne. Here is more.
Why was Smith omitted?
The problem with Smith's inclusion in the global T20 league is that he was picked from outside the draft. This is something that goes against the laws of the BPL. Other franchises expressed their concern over Smith's inclusion during a meeting with the BPL governing council. The GC members failed to convince the franchises, which saw the matter get presented to the BCB.
BPL: What next regarding Smith?
According to a report in Cricbuzz, Victorians chief executive Col[retd] AKM Zaki said, "Yes he [Smith] is not available for us. We have received a mail in this regard last night." The report adds that according to a source, the franchise is planning on writing to the BCB with a view to reconsider the decision.
A blow for Smith ahead of IPL 2019
This is a blow for Smith as he would have liked to get some much needed practice ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League starting in March 2019. Smith would have loved to score some runs and keep his form going. He will be eyeing a berth in the Australian team for the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019.
Warner to play for Sylhet Sixers
Smith was expected to join the side after 4 matches post the departure of Pakistan's Shoaib Malik. Meanwhile, David Warner is all set to play for Sylhet Sixers in the BPL 2019 edition.
Smith serving a 12-month ban
Both the former Australian captain Smith and vice-captain Warner are serving a 12-month ban, while Cameron Bancroft was axed for 9 months The ban was awarded for their involvement in the ball-tampering scandal which happened during the Test series in South Africa, earlier this year, in March. They were barred from playing domestic Sheffield Shield and the Big Bash Twenty20 competition besides international cricket.
