The BBL 2025 Draft kicked off with high expectations, and Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf were the first two picks, highlighting the growing importance of pace in the Big Bash League. In a surprising turn, Jofra Archer, despite his availability, was left without a team.
Shaheen and Rauf Lead the Charge
Shaheen Afridi, making his debut in the BBL, was selected by Brisbane Heat, joining an already potent pace attack featuring Spencer Johnson, Xavier Bartlett, and Michael Neser. Afridi’s left-arm pace brings a fresh dimension to Heat’s bowling attack.
Meanwhile, Haris Rauf created some drama when Adelaide Strikers picked him, but Melbourne Stars exercised their power to retain the pacer who has been a standout performer in previous seasons. Rauf, with 36 wickets in 22 games, is a proven match-winner for the Stars. The Strikers swiftly moved on and opted for England’s Luke Wood, who had previously represented the Stars.
Jofra Archer’s Surprising Snub
Despite being fully available for the season, Jofra Archer had no takers in the draft, marking a surprising turn of events for the England pacer who was expected to make a major impact.
Other Notable Picks
- Mohammad Rizwan, the Pakistan wicketkeeper-batsman, was added to the Melbourne Renegades squad, bringing a wealth of international experience to the team.
- Hobart Hurricanes, the defending champions, re-signed Chris Jordan, whose performance was pivotal in their title win.
- Perth Scorchers kept faith in Finn Allen, despite a challenging 2024 season, with the Kiwi’s blistering 151* in the MLC last week reigniting hopes for the upcoming season.
- Sydney Sixers chose Sam Curran, who will be making his BBL debut, while Sydney Thunder brought back Lockie Ferguson, despite concerns over his fitness and availability.
- Shadab Khan, Jamie Overton, Sam Billings, Rehan Ahmed, Babar Azam, and Colin Munro were also among the notable picks.
WBBL Draft: Major Signings and Retentions
In the WBBL draft, Sophia Dunkley was picked up by Sydney Sixers, while Sophie Ecclestone went to Adelaide Strikers. The following picks were largely retention-based, as teams kept hold of key players:
- Jemimah Rodrigues (Brisbane Heat)
- Danni Wyatt-Hodge (Hobart Hurricanes)
- Heather Knight (Sydney Thunder)
- Deandra Dottin (Melbourne Renegades)
Melbourne Stars also added Amy Jones to their squad, while Perth Scorchers re-signed Sophie Devine. Key pre-signings included Amelia Kerr, Marizanne Kapp, Nat Sciver-Brunt, and Chamari Athapaththu.
Summary:
The BBL 2025 draft saw explosive picks, with Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf among the top choices, while Jofra Archer was shockingly undrafted. The WBBL draft also saw notable signings, including Sophia Dunkley and Sophie Ecclestone, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
