Pacer James Pattinson announced that he will not be a part of Melbourne Renegades for the upcoming KFC BBL season despite having a year left to run on his contract.
James Pattinson parts ways with Melbourne Renegades
Pattinson revealed his decision on social media on Thursday morning, saying he wished to spend more time with his family over the Christmas period, with the Renegades then confirming the former Australia fast bowler and the club had mutually agreed to part ways.
Pattinson, who retired from international cricket last year, made six appearances in the 2021-22 season where he claimed just three wickets before ending his season early due to manage injuries amid the challenge of the Covid restrictions at the time. READ: What is BBL Draft System? – Full Explanation on the BBL Draft Process
“Pattinson was contracted for the upcoming season, with he and the club agreeing to mutually part ways,” said the statement.
Pattinson has cited the need to spend time with his family for the decision. “Unfortunately I could only commit to part of the season given my state and overseas cricket commitments.
I’ll need to take a break in December to give my body a rest and also want to spend that Christmas period with family. I’d like to thank the Renegades for my time there and wish them all the best for the season,” Pattinson was quoted as saying.
The Renegades have previously indicated their interest in veteran batter Jon Wells, whose contract wasn’t renewed by Adelaide Strikers at the end of last season, and out-of-contract Hobart Hurricanes quick Tom Rogers.
“We’d like to thank James for his efforts as a Renegade,” Melbourne Renegades general manager James Rosengarten said.
“We understand the position he’s in with prioritising his County and State cricketing commitments and appreciate him being upfront with us,” said James Rosengarten, General Manager of Melbourne Renegades.
“With James only being available for part of the season, we feel the best option for us is to utilise this list spot on a player who can fully commit to the Renegades for all of BBL|12.
“The timing of this decision allows our list management team to balance the role of that player alongside who we may target in the overseas player draft.”
Pattinson, who remains contracted to Victoria, is currently in the United Kingdom playing for Nottinghamshire.
He has rediscovered some of his best form during his stint with Notts where he sits among the top 10 wicket-takers in the division two County Championship Division this season with 19 from his five matches.
Melbourne Renegades BBL|12 squad so far: Zak Evans, Aaron Finch, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Sam Harper, Mackenzie Harvey, Nic Maddinson, Shaun Marsh, Kane Richardson
