The Sydney Thunder have moved to replace Ravi Ashwin with the addition of experienced English left-arm fast bowler Reece Topley as an International Replacement Player.
Topley will join Thunder for the first half of the season while Kiwi quick Lockie Ferguson captains the Desert Vipers in the ILT20. Once Ferguson’s commitments conclude, he will return to Thunder, with Topley then departing to take part in the SA20.
The Englishman is contracted to play in the SA20 with Joburg Super Kings, who have announced Jarren Bacher will cover him until December 31, despite their first game being on December 27.
That is good news with the Thunder having a Round 2 double, with their second game of that round on December 22.
The ILT20 regular season runs until December 28, with finals concluding on January 4, with Ferguson’s Vipers’ success dictating his BBL availability. The Vipers won the season opener overnight.
Topley, 31, returns to the Big Bash for the first time since BBL|11 where he claimed 9 wickets across 8 matches for the Melbourne Renegades.
He is an England international, playing 35 times for his country in T20Is for 33 wickets and 30 times in ODIs for 47 wickets. He most recently represented England in November last year against the West Indies.
Sydney Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland said Topley is the ideal replacement for Ferguson.
“Like Ferguson, Reece Topley is a genuine strike bowler who can take wickets with the new ball and at the death,” said Copeland.
“He’s proven himself in high-pressure situations across both T20I and ODI cricket, and his ability to generate bounce and movement makes him a natural fit for the Thunder attack.”
Topley commented on his eagerness to return to the BBL, this time in lime green.
“I’m really looking forward to joining the Thunder and getting stuck into the Big Bash again,” Topley said.
“It’s a competition I’ve loved being part of, and the chance to step in and help the team start the season strongly is something I’m genuinely excited about.
“I enjoy those pressure moments, and I know that’s a big part of what the Thunder expect from me. I’m keen to bring my experience, play my role, and hopefully set things up nicely for when Lockie returns later in the season.”
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