Former Australia pacer Peter Siddle and England all-rounder Samit Patel have been barred from participating in this summer’s T20 Blast under regulations of the England and Wales Cricket Board, placing both players in a difficult position.
According to reports, the restriction has been imposed after the two cricketers took part in the World Legends Pro T20 League held in Goa earlier this year. The league was deemed “unapproved” as it did not have the sanction of the Board of Control for Cricket in India.
ECB rules state that any player who participates in an unsanctioned league within the past 12 months becomes ineligible to feature in county cricket competitions.
The 41-year-old Siddle was set to represent Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club, but the club has confirmed termination of his contract, expressing disappointment and indicating it will seek a replacement.
Meanwhile, Patel who parted ways with Derbyshire County Cricket Club after last season had been looking for a new county. However, he has now accepted the ECB’s decision and abandoned hopes of playing this season.
Patel had been among a select group of players to feature in every season since 2003, making the development a significant setback in his long-standing domestic career.