Perth Scorchers general manager Kade Harvey has opened up on the difficult choices to not retain club stalwarts Laurie Evans and David Payne as the franchise reshapes its squad for the upcoming Big Bash League season. Both players were integral to Perth's success in recent campaigns, with Payne taking 3 for 18 in the BBL|15 final victory over Sydney Sixers on January 25, 2026, and Evans achieving player of the match in Perth's 2021-22 season decider against the same opposition. The departures mark significant changes to the Scorchers' overseas contingent following the club's sixth title win last season.
On Friday, Perth Scorchers announced Aneurin Donald as their third and final international signing for the upcoming campaign, joining England compatriots Zak Crawley and Calvin Harrison in the squad. The trio replaces Evans, Payne and Finn Allen, who defected to Melbourne Stars. Harvey, who took on an expanded role in July, addressed the reasoning behind the non-retentions.
Both Evans and Payne were described by Harvey as fantastic people for the Perth Scorchers. The general manager emphasised that each season presents distinct opportunities and requirements when shaping the squad composition. Harvey explained the strategic thinking behind the decisions without diminishing the contributions of either player.
"It’s always challenging when you have to make those decisions, but year-on-year, you’re always trying to make the group the best it can be, given the list dynamic. Particularly for the Payney one — last year, we felt like we needed some quick cover, and this year, with our group going to Chennai and some of the wickets we played on, we felt like we needed some spin depth." Harvey said as quoted by The West Australian.
Why were Evans and Payne not retained?
Zak Crawley's versatility in the batting order provides flexibility for the Scorchers' middle-order construction. Harvey outlined how the coaching staff would utilise the squad's depth to balance the team for each match. Young prospect Will Malajczuk has been identified as a potential option at positions 6 and 7 throughout the tournament.
“I think Zak can bat anywhere in the order, a lot of our guys can bat anywhere. Basically, we’re handing (coach) Adam (Voges) and the captain and the coaching crew a squad of players for them to pick the right balance for each game. Certainly, Will Malajczuk is a young guy who we think can play a role at No.6, No.7 throughout the tournament," said Harvey.
What remains to be finalised?
Perth Scorchers have three remaining spots to fill on their 18-player list ahead of the historic season opener in Chennai against Melbourne Renegades on December 12. The club remains in active negotiations with wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis, though his international commitments are likely to limit his Big Bash League availability. While the departure of Evans came alongside veteran Nick Hobson's defection to Hobart Hurricanes, Harvey remained confident in the squad's overall balance. Harvey acknowledged the complexity of finalising the squad composition.
"Once we've got to this point, you're at a stage where you can try and get as much information as you can as to whether a player's going to be available or not. That's something we'll work at post the South Africa tour and into the Australian summer, as to where he sits. He's a really valued member of the Perth Scorchers, but it's also about making sure we've got 18 players who are going to be available to play in the tournament as best we can," said Harvey.
