CRICKET Australia executives have declared West Indian all-rounder Andre Russell’s use of a black bat as completely within the laws of the Big Bash competition.
Russell stoked controversy yesterday after showing up for the tournament’s opening encounter against the Sydney Sixers with a black and pink bat. The instrument immediately set tongues wagging on social media platforms.

While many praised the talented Jamaican’s creative spark, many pointed out that the equipment could be illegal, citing Law 6.6 which states that it is not legal for a player to have a blackened blade.
A similar controversy arose in the English Country Twenty20, with Ashar Zaidi also wielding a black coloured bat for Essex, until it was outlawed.

A Cricket Australia spokesperson quickly clarified the ruling, saying the West Indian all-rounder had not broken any laws.
“A player can use a coloured bat subject to Cricket Australia approval. The bat may be the same colour as the club’s primary colour, or black,” said the spokesperson.
“CA retains the right to withdraw approval in its absolute discretion. The umpires can also request a player change the bat if they believe it affects the integrity of the match.”
Russell made just nine runs and took one wicket as the Thunder lost by nine runs to the Sixers.

(Sportsmax.com)