Big Bash League: Stay up to date with the latest news ahead of this year’s competition

The revamped Big Bash League has landed its first international superstar. Find out who is already keen to sign him and how long he could be around for.

Faf Du Plessis is on his way to the BBL. Picture: Getty Images

The revamped Big Bash League has landed its first international superstar, with former South African captain Faf du Plessis nominating for the inaugural draft.

News Corp understands multiple clubs across the league are interested in du Plessis, although he is yet to nominate his exact availability dates which could impact on whether he is ultimately picked up for the coming season.

However, just having du Plessis’ throw his hat in the ring gives the new BBL draft instant credibility as they chase further overseas marquee stars to nominate themselves for at least part of the upcoming season.

Over the past decade, du Plessis has played the role of pantomime villain in his series of memorable clashes with the Australian team, but the quality of his performances have earned him universal respect.

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South Africa captain Faf du Plessis has starred in international cricket for many years.

Australians respect opposition stars who stand up to them, and du Plessis’ record against the Aussies was superior to his overall international record – testament to the strength of his character and ability to stand up on the big stage.

Broadcasters will be desperately hoping du Plessis is picked up, given he stands out as one of the big drawcards in the modern game.

Du Plessis has not featured in the BBL since he made a one-match cameo for the Melbourne Renegades a decade ago following his man-of-the-match performance on Test debut against Australia in Adelaide, where he single-handedly saved the Test.

Brisbane Heat are understood to be just one of the clubs interested in du Plessis, eyeing him as a potential replacement in the top order for Chris Lynn – although teams are eagerly awaiting the names of other nominating stars before finalising draft plans.

Brisbane Heat are looking for a big-hitting replacement to Chris Lynn.

It is almost guaranteed du Plessis will feature either in his home South African T20 league or the new UAE league come the middle of January, so his stay in the BBL would likely only be for up to the first month of the BBL.

The former Proteas captain will be followed to the BBL by a fleet of South Africans, with quality left-hand batsman Rilee Rossouw, all-rounder David Wiese and fast bowler Marchant de Lange also nominating for the upcoming draft.

“The league is delighted to receive nominations from Faf du Plessis, Marchant de Lange, Rilee Rossouw and David Wiese to enter the draft,” said BBL boss, Alistair Dobson.

“The nomination of a player of Faf’s calibre is not only an endorsement of the BBL draft, but also of the BBL’s unique offering as a great experience for players and their families in the Australian summer. We believe it is the players’ favourite competition.

“We thank these players for making themselves available for the BBL and look forward to announcing further nominations soon.”

Originally published as Big Bash League: Stay up to date with the latest news ahead of this year’s competition