Announced 30 September: Melbourne Renegades have pulled off one of the signings of the off-season. England star Jonny Bairstow will play his first-ever BBL season with the Renegades, and he will be there for the full tournament, gloves included. The Renegades confirmed the signing on 30 September. He joins a Melbourne Renegades squad that opens the season in Chennai.
Bairstow is a big name. 100 Tests for England, two World Cup wins, and a habit of changing games in a hurry. He has toured Australia three times on Ashes trips, so Aussie crowds already know his face.
Why the Renegades needed him
Tim Seifert left for the Sydney Sixers, and that left a hole at the top of the order and behind the stumps. Bairstow fills both jobs in one signing.
Bairstow nearly played in the BBL before. He was set to play for the Melbourne Stars in BBL|10 in 2020, but the move fell through. His first game is the big one: the Chennai opener against the Perth Scorchers on 12 December.
Has Jonny Bairstow played in the BBL before?
No. BBL|16 with the Renegades will be his first BBL stint.
What role will Bairstow play for the Renegades?
Wicketkeeper-batter, available for the full season.
Who are the Renegades’ overseas signings?
Bairstow and New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell.