Seamer Jofra Archer has been named among the 50 additional English players nominated for the upcoming Big Bash draft. At 30, Archer is currently recovering from a thumb injury but has his sights set on returning to red-ball cricket, with the winter Ashes series in Australia as his primary goal.

Unlike other players such as Ollie Pope and Jacob Bethell, who have entered the draft for only four to six games and the finals, Archer is available for the entire tournament. This full availability marks a significant commitment from the seasoned cricketer, who previously played for the Hobart Hurricanes in 2017 and 2018, where he took 34 wickets at an impressive average of 23.26.

Other notable names in the men's draft include all-rounder Liam Dawson, batters Jason Roy and Jordan Cox, and bowlers Luke Wood and Reece Topley. The Big Bash League (BBL) serves as a crucial platform for these players to showcase their skills ahead of the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, scheduled for February.

In the women's draft, prominent players like Sophia Dunkley, Tammy Beaumont, and bowlers Sarah Glenn, Lauren Filer, Issy Wong, and Kate Cross have also thrown their hats into the ring. Their participation underscores the growing competitiveness and popularity of women's cricket in the franchise format.

The Big Bash draft not only offers players a chance to shine but also provides selectors with valuable insights into their form and fitness as major international tournaments loom. With Archer's full availability and the inclusion of other high-profile players, this year's draft promises to be one of the most exciting yet.