Peter Siddle And Sumit Patel has been ruled out of this summer’s T20 Blast after breaching ECB regulations linked to his participation in an unsanctioned tournament earlier this year, reports ESPNcricinfo. Both players joined the World Legends Pro T20 League held in Goa during January and February, a competition considered “unsanctioned cricket” as it was not supported by the Board of Control for Cricket in India. Under ECB rules, any cricketer who has participated in such events within 12 months of the domestic season is barred from county competitions. Siddle, 41, was set to sign overseas for Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club in the Blast, but the deal has now been called off. The club confirmed the development on Tuesday, citing his “personal circumstances”. Director of cricket Mick Neville admitted the decision was a blow, saying Nottinghamshire were “naturally disappointed” and would now look for a replacement. County had already bolstered their squad with the additions of Benny Howell and George Muncy. However, they could also be without another foreign recruit, George Linde, at the start of the tournament. Linde is currently contracted to Lucknow Supergiants in the IPL and could miss the opening matches if the franchise advances to the playoffs. Meanwhile, Patel’s situation is more certain. The 41-year-old all-rounder, who has been without a county contract since leaving Derbyshire County Cricket Club after last season, confirmed he had accepted the ECB’s directive and given up hopes of playing in this year’s Blast. Patel’s absence marks the end of a remarkable streak. side by side Ravi BoparaHe is one of only two players to have appeared in every edition of the T20 Blast since its inception in 2003. Neither will be involved this season, with Bopara already stepping away from county cricket last month to focus on coaching and media commitments.
