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After getting named in the preliminary squad for the tour of West Indies and Bangladesh, the Australian duo David Warner and Marcus Stoinis have withdrawn from the inaugural event of the English domestic cricket league ‘The Hundred’, with the international cricketing calendar packed and other domestic leagues taking precedence, the England Cricket Board (ECB) is bracing itself for more withdrawals by its international stars.
The opening edition of The Hundred is all set to take place from July 21-August 21. However, due to the quarantine and bio-bubble fatigue, many players are looking to pull out of the tournament.
ESPNCricinfo made it clear about Warner and Stoinis withdrawal by sharing a statement by the ECB to the publication. “It is obviously disappointing to lose players with the ability of David and Marcus, but the realities of Covid mean there are practicalities that are difficult for some overseas players to overcome. Replacement overseas players will be signed by Southern Brave, and we look forward to the Hundred showcasing world-class cricket this summer,” the ECB statement read.
Both the Australian cricketers were set to play for Southern Brave this summer, as they had signed deals worth £100,000 and £80,000 respectively. But the duo has pulled out of The Hundred giving a reason to spend more time with their families. Also, they are expected to pull out from white-ball tours to the West Indies and Bangladesh.