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Brisbane Heat’s Tom Banton pulls out of BBL as bubble life takes toll

The batsman from England Tom Banton has unfortunately withdrawn his name from the BBL as he was set to be a part of Brisbane heat. The reason behind the issue stands as the demands of the Bio-secure bubbles that he was a part of from the recent few months.

Currently, Banton is in South Africa with England Squad but as a reserve player. This was decided during the time he was in UAE as part of the KKR squad. He was also a part of the limited-overs cricket for England in the home grounds against Australia, Pakistan and Ireland.

Before being available for Brisbane heat he was about to travel directly from South Africa to Australia and undergo a 14 days quarantine period.

Banton realized that it was not that easy to stay in such bubbles as it wasn’t doing him much good. The Brisbane heat was very good with him the previous season and this is why he expected them to understand his views. His final conclusion was to head back home and regroup.

He declared that he won’t be a part of the team and thanked the members and fans who will be supporting the Brisbane heat this season.

Darren Lehman who is the head coach of the team accepted that it was a huge blow for them as it happened just before the tournament was about to kickstart but they have shown full support to the decision made by Banton. The spinner from Afghanistan Mujeeb Ur Rehman has also been a part of the trouble for the team as he tested positive for the Covid-19.

Lehman also stated that Banton was not the kind of person who makes such a decision but he did. He is an impressive young man but has taken a decision without any integrity.

They support his decision and will want him to head back soon to his loved ones and recover with them. Together as a team they are strong and understand that Tom needs to head home right now.

During these crises and challenging atmosphere, there seems to be no exception in work and ethics. The health and well being of the players along with their families comes first.

They wanted to support Tom in the tough decision that he has made. They expect someone else to take the opportunity to shine in his place.

In the light of Banton’s withdrawal, it could be Dan Lawrence who might be asked to stay as he was supposed to be available for the first 5 matches only for the heats. The all-rounder from England Lewis Gregory is another overseas option for them.

On 11th of December, they will be playing against Melbourne Stars in their opening game of the tournament.

 

 

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