McCullum cleared for Big Bash

Brendon McCullum will boost NSW Blues' batting in this weekend's Australian domestic Twenty20 final

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New Zealand and Otago have agreed to release wicketkeeper-batsman Brendon McCullum to play in this weekend’s Big Bash final.

McCullum is set to feature for the New South Wales Blues in the final of the Australian domestic Twenty20 competition.

With NSW already qualified for next autumn’s scheduled Champions League in India, McCullum’s presence on Saturday will ensure he can take part in October even if his Indian Premier League team, Kolkata Knight Riders, do not make it.

Otago Cricket chief executive Ross Dykes explained the reasons for releasing McCullum, who - as a New Zealand international - would have been unavailable to his state side anyway for forthcoming matches.

“First, the Black Caps will not be available for the semi-final or final of the State Shield next week,” said Dykes.

“By releasing Brendon we actually allow room for a replacement batsman to settle into the Otago Volts batting line-up – a line-up that will have to be without both McCullum and Neil Broom if they are to defend the State Shield title through a semi-final and a final.

“Secondly, we recognise the impetus that Brendon has given Otago Cricket since his return over one year ago and are conscious of his reputation as a dominant force on the world stage of limited-overs cricket.

“The chance to further enhance his reputation can only bring further good to the profile of our game locally and, not unrealistically, bring financial benefits as well.”

New Zealand Cricket chief executive Justin Vaughan added: “There is much potential upside with Brendon having a guaranteed spot in the Champions League.

“I support Otago’s view that they should make all sensible preparations to win through the semi and final of the State Shield without both Brendon and Neil Broom.”