Perth Scorchers signs David Willey as their only overseas player for BBL 2017

Defending champions of the Big Bash League (BBL) Perth Scorchers are about to launch their campaign with just one overseas signing. The franchise confirmed it with the signing of England fast bowler David Willey on Thursday. In an unusual move, the Scorchers signed a deal with Willey, who is a potent swing bowler and handy lower middle order batsman. He will be Perth’s lone international player during BBL 2017.

As per the rules of the league, a team could play two overseas players in their playing XI and every team has to fulfil these two quotas in the BBL. The left-arm fast bowler will return for his third stint with the club, having played an integral role in their title-winning season last summer.

“I’m really pleased to be heading back to Perth, it’s such a great competition and great place to play cricket and I absolutely love playing for the Scorchers,” Willey said in a statement.

“It’s one of the best groups of lads I’ve ever played with over my career and I love playing under (coach Justin Langer). I think the Big Bash is the best T20 competition in the world. The crowds, the following; everything about it is fantastic and obviously, the weather is fantastic, so you’re guaranteed to play a lot of cricket,” he added.

“I was sitting at home on the sofa thinking about what the Scorchers side will be and I was thinking I might not get on the team now. The challenge to get on the playing side will be tough but that’s good to be a part of,” the pacer mentioned.

Willey’s BBL 2017 journey will be cut short due to national duty

His presence in the England squad for the ODI series against Australia this summer could limit his availability for the Scorchers at the business end of the BBL. The five-match series will be followed by the Ashes. The ODI series will start on January 14 at the MCG.

Alongside his bowling, Willey has two centuries in T20 cricket and is a regular member of England limited-overs sides. He was also England’s mainstay in the 2016 World T20 where the former played the final in Kolkata.

Perth Scorchers BBL season 7 squad:

Adam Voges (C), Ashton Agar, Cameron Bancroft, Jason Behrendorff, Hilton Cartwright, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Mitchell Johnson, Michael Klinger, Mitch Marsh, Shaun Marsh, Joel Paris, Jhye Richardson, Ashton Turner, Andrew Tye, Sam Whiteman, David Willey (OS).