Gilly hails BBL's 'global drawcards'

Test legend Adam Gilchrist has credited Twenty20 cricket for the rebirth of the sport domestically, and hailed the global pulling power of the KFC T20 Big Bash League.

Gilchrist, who is Perth Scorchers’ number one ticket holder, believes the growth of the BBL is only set to continue with the addition of some superstar names to this summer’s edition of the tournament.

“There are some big names coming in. Kevin Pietersen is a global name, Jacques Kallis is one of the best allrounders ever, there’s talk of (Andrew) Flintoff joining up, so that’s fantastic to see the strength of the BBL drawing those names into the mix,” he said.

“They’re going to be drawcards aren’t they – the crowd is going to want to see them, they’ll be part of the TV package as well probably just because they’re so entertaining and such worldly figures in the game.

“A long time ago it seemed like domestic cricket was never going to have another patron walk through the gate for free, let alone pay.

“That’s the power of Twenty20 cricket and how it’s revived the domestic game all around the globe and that’s indeed why it was invented in England – to revive county cricket.

“It’s a wonderful product, it’s a fantastic day out and experience for everyone that comes in, and it’s great that everyone’s embraced it as well as they have.”

Gilchrist believes the Scorchers are every chance of going back-to-back in BBL|04, having broken through for their maiden title last summer after appearing in their third straight final.  

“In this format, I can’t see why not,” he added.

“It’s anyone’s game really, but certainly it seems like the culture around the group and the focus and leadership has come into a strong alignment behind the leaders at the top, mainly Justin (Langer), Adam Voges, Chris Matthews the CEO, so there’s a good feel around.”

The former keeper-batsman opted for in-form gloveman Sam Whiteman when asked about players to watch, and added two more names into the mix.

“Ashton Turner just showed glimpses last year of what he can produce,” he said.

“I think he could really flourish, particularly in this short format – he’s the perfect package for that type of cricket.

“And then the more experienced guys; I think Yasir Arafat will be back in the fold, and he was instrumental in the success of the Scorchers last year, albeit missing out on that final.

“So there’s some good signs and with a packed house at The Furnace, anything’s possible.”