The top-placed Melbourne Renegades are preparing to source an overseas replacement for injured West Indian Marlon Samuels but say they would love the controversial allrounder back next Big Bash League season.
While Samuels is yet to be ruled out for the remainder of the Renegades' current campaign, the BBL pace-setters are bracing for the news that a Lasith Malinga bouncer fractured his eye socket at the MCG on Sunday night.
Bruising and bleeding around the eye has so far prevented a conclusive diagnosis.
But Renegades coach Simon Helmot is already making a wish list of overseas players who could replace Samuels for a home semi-final and potentially a final.
"You have lots of thoughts, lots of ideas and contingencies, lots of players all over the world who may be available," Helmot said.
"But we've got to wait first until we see how Marlon goes and make sure we give him the best possible chance."
Samuels spent hours in hospital after copping the blow in the fiery clash with the Melbourne Stars.
Earlier in Sunday night's extraordinary match, Samuels impeded David Hussey when the Victorian was attempting a run and was then part of an explosive physical and verbal confrontation with Stars captain Shane Warne, for which he must face a Cricket Australia hearing when he is fit enough.
Previously in the tournament, Samuels' bowling action was questioned by Brisbane Heat coach Darren Lehmann and he was also involved in a heated exchange with Adelaide Strikers coach Darren Berry.
But Helmot doubted Samuels' status as a lightning rod for BBL opponents' venom would put him off returning and said the Renegades would welcome back a player they had found to be a fine team man and on-field contributor.
"I'm sure it will take a lot more than this to upset him," Helmot said.
"It's all about opportunities, isn't it, but we'd like to think that if we have a successful season Marlon Samuels can be a part of the Renegades family for a long time."
The Renegades will also lose batting linchpin Aaron Finch - their captain and the BBL's top scorer - to Australia's one-day international squad for at least Wednesday night's clash with the Sydney Sixers and possibly the finals.
They are also dealing with injuries to batsmen Ben Rohrer and Alex Doolan, who are both in doubt for the Sixers clash.
Courtesy: Tvnz
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