Australian women’s cricketer Alyssa Healy has shared her wish to see Indian captain Rohit Sharma play in the Australian league Big Bash League (BBL). She believes his presence in the tournament would not only attract more fans but also help young Australian players to gain some cricketing skills from them.
However, Healy knows that this might not be possible. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has strict rules that do not allow Indian players to participate in overseas T20 leagues while they are still active in Indian cricket. Despite this, Healy remains hopeful that one day, big stars like Rohit Sharma will play in the BBL and make it even more exciting.
Alyssa Healy Dreams of Rohit Sharma in BBL
Alyssa Healy compared Rohit Sharma’s career path to that of MS Dhoni. She pointed out that Dhoni continued playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) even after retiring from international cricket but never played in any overseas leagues due to BCCI’s restrictions.
Alyssa Healy said "Imagine having someone like Rohit Sharma in the BBL – it would only do wonders for our competition". [Willow Talk Podcast] pic.twitter.com/GK5T5OiLBS
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) April 3, 2025
She expressed on the Willow Podcast, “Yeah, I hope one day we can attract some of these guys. I mean, imagine someone like Rohit Sharma coming down to play BBL. Maybe he’s finished his, if ever; he might be like MS Dhoni, playing forever over in India. But imagine some of these guys coming down.
I mean, the amount of support that they get down here already, it would only do wonders for our competition. So maybe one day. Wonders for our competition in every regard, i.e., taking the spot of a local player? Or would you view that as you’re really helping those young players on that list evolve? I think if they willing”
Healy also mentioned that if Indian cricketers are willing to share their knowledge, it could help young Australian players improve their game.
Mitchell Starc wife Alyssa Healy: "Imagine having someone like Rohit Sharma in the BBL , it would do wonders for our competition." pic.twitter.com/4GNC9UVsTm
— 𝐉𝐨𝐝 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐞 (@jod_insane) April 3, 2025
BCCI’s Rule on Overseas T20 Leagues
The BCCI has always been strict about keeping Indian players away from other T20 leagues. While other countries allow their players to gain experience worldwide, the BCCI wants to maintain the exclusivity of the IPL.
Their main reasons for this rule include:
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- Protecting the IPL’s brand value
- Preventing player burnout and injuries
- Ensuring Indian players are available for domestic and international matches
Because of these rules even top Indian cricketers like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah have never played in leagues like the BBL or the Hundred.
This has led to debates in the cricket world, with some former cricketers suggesting that Indian players should be allowed to explore overseas tournaments.
Also Read: India’s 2025 Home Season: Full Schedule Announced By BCCI
