Dwayne Smith out of big bash for personal reasons!

Dwayne Smith has been replaced by Riki Wessels in the Sydney Sixers BBL04 squad after Smith notified the club that he would not be available for this year’s KFC T20 Big Bash League.

Smith, who previously withdrew from BBL|03, cited a re-surfacing of personal issues for failing to show up for this year’s tournament.

He will be replaced by Riki Wessels, son of former South African captain Kepler Wessels, who has been playing at Nottinghamshire after leaving Australia in his teens.

“While we were aware of Dwayne’s personal issues we received assurances from his management that he would be available for this season with the Sixers,” said Sixers General Manager Dom Remond.

“Unfortunately Dwayne has had a relapse of his condition that means he is unable to join us and we wish him the best with his recovery.

“We are very excited that a player of Riki’s calibre was available at such short notice and we are looking forward to his arrival. He plays County with Michael Lumb and we know he’ll fit in perfectly with our squad.”

Other changes to the Sixers squad include Luke Doran and Simon Keen replacing Stephen O’Keefe (calf) and Trent Copeland (back) until the end of December.

The Sydney Sixers play their first game at the SCG on Friday 19 December against Melbourne Renegades.