De Villiers on Sydney Thunder's radar to replace Andre Russell

The next edition of BBL is schedule to take place in December 2017.

Andre Russell was handed one-year ban in February 2017 for ‘doping whereabouts’ violations.

The Big Bash League franchise is looking to replace the West Indians power hitter with another batting powerhouse and 3 players have emerged has prime targets.

South Africa’s Ab de Villiers remains favourite as he shares good relation with coach Paddy Upton and with the increasing speculation about him quitting Test cricket to concentrate on limited over format, he looks set to feature in the upcoming edition of the BBL.

Thunder also have England limited over format skipper Eoin Morgan on their radar. The swashbuckling left hand batsman has been a part of the Thunder side in the previous edition.

The Thunder are considering a move for West Indies T20 side skipper Carlos Brathwaite to replace Russell.

The Shane Watson led side had disappointing finish to the previous campaign as they stood 8th in the BBL standings.

Andre Russell contract termination has forced Sydney Thunder to reignite the clubs pursuit of South African great Ab De Villiers for the upcoming season of the Big Bash League.