WBBL to tackle issue of imports
A WOMEN’S Big Bash without imports would be a “huge loss”, but Nicola Carey is confident there is enough depth in the Australian ranks to ensure a competitive competition.
However the national allrounder concedes the two Melbourne and Sydneybased franchises could find it more difficult filling squads.
The viability of overseas players featuring in both the BBL and WBBL this summer remains in doubt because of the strict national border restrictions still in place.
Carey, who was part of Australia’s triumphant T20 World Cup victory over India in March, remains hopeful the league will still have its star international power — and at worst could see an influx of players from neighbouring New Zealand, which has also been successful in limiting the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“That would be an interesting one, obviously they add a lot of class to the competition when you get some of the world’s best players coming down to play in this competition,” Carey said.
“It would be a huge loss if we couldn’t get them over here but maybe we could get some of the Kiwi girls over given they are lifting their restrictions.
“I’m sure we would be able to cover it, it might be difficult for perhaps the Sydney teams and Melbourne teams having two of them and only one state squad, but I’m sure we would make it work.”
Carey, who made the switch from NSW to join Tasmania and the Hobart Hurricanes last season, will resume pre-season next week with the Tigers.
The 26-year-old is itching to get back into the nets and begin preparations for another big season which culminates with the 50-over World Cup tournament in New Zealand in February.
“I am looking forward to getting back into things, I felt we are probably one of the last states to get back into it.
“We have a pretty new group down here in Tas as well so I am excited to get in there on Monday and get started and actually train with other people as opposed to doing my own thing.
“I haven’t had a proper pre-season in probably a couple of years now, so it is a good opportunity to stay in the one environment and have a solid prep.”