Former Proteas batsman Colin Ingram will not return to the Adelaide Strikers for Australia’s next Big Bash League.

Ingram is currently playing for the Delhi Capitals, who have qualified for the play-offs in the ongoing Indian Premier League.

‘We are disappointed to lose Colin, but we were aware that it was a strong possibility that for family reasons he could not commit to a new contract,’ said South Australia Cricket Association high-performance general manager Tim Nielsen.

‘He is a quality player and leader and was one of the key players behind our first BBL title win last year. We wish Colin, Megan and family all the best.’

Meanwhile, the Sydney Sixers are reportedly the front-runners to contract former South African captain AB de Villiers.

The deal, aided by financial assistance from Cricket Australia, might be worth as much as R3.5-million (AUS 350,000).

‘We would be absolutely delighted to have AB join the Sixers and have made an offer for this Australian summer,’ Sydney Sixers general manager Jodie Hawkins told ESPNcricinfo.

‘We understand there are a number of BBL clubs wanting to welcome AB, but we believe we offer him a great option to experience the Big Bash, living in Sydney by the beach, playing at one of his favourite grounds, the SCG, and just enjoying what Sydney offers in summer.

‘That’s a pretty good proposition. He’d also be great working with some of our young stars and meeting our incredible fans.’

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