BBL scraps overseas draft for direct signings in major contracting overhaul

Cricket Australia will abandon the overseas player draft for the Big Bash League in favour of a direct-signing system for both domestic and international players. The change follows months of negotiations between the board and franchises.

The new model shifts power from the central league structure to individual teams, allowing franchises to negotiate directly with overseas talent. This replaces the previous system where the league controlled overseas player allocation through a draft process.

The move aims to help the BBL retain top international players who previously chose other T20 leagues offering more certainty over contracts. Australian stars will also benefit from increased earning potential under the revised contracting rules that take effect immediately.