The Big Bash League might be an Australian product but overseas players have equally sizzled since its inception in 2011.
The BBL became a franchise competition, consisting of eight city-based franchises, replacing the earlier tournament, which had six state-based sides. As a result, it was able to attract more foreign players.
Similar to the previous years editions, the eight franchises have signed a handful of overseas players ahead of the 12th season.
Hence, spectators are in for another round of T20 cricket after an exhilarating edition of the T20 World Cup which was held in Australia. Like the World Cup, some lesser-known foreign players may also take the tournament by storm.
We take a look at six overseas players to watch out for in the 12th edition of BBL:
4. Martin Guptill - Melbourne Renegades
New Zealand opener Martin Guptill might no longer be a centrally-contracted cricketer; however, he is one of the most gun T20 openers and a free-flowing batter.
Guptill, who has previously plied his trade for the Sydney Thunder years ago, has replaced English all-rounder Liam Livingstone, who pulled out due to international commitments.
The Kiwi opening batter is New Zealand's leading run-getter in T20 internationals and the most capped player for them.
He also boasts magnificent T20 numbers, striking at 130.80 in 303 T20s and having scored 8569 runs. It will be intriguing to see him join hands with Australia's T20 skipper Aaron Finch at the top for the Renegades.
