David Willey focuses on Big Bash League after his Test hopes are dashed

England bowling all-rounder David Willey has made it clear that he has set complete focus on the ongoing seventh edition of the Big Bash League (BBL) after being picked by the reigning champions Perth Scorchers.

“Certainly, two years ago I still had ambitions to play Test cricket. But right now, I’m at a real crossroads,” Willey was quoted as saying by Cricket Australia.

The 27-year-old fast bowler Willey conceded he has stopped thinking about his Test contention for the Three Lions.

However, in the limited-overs for England, Willey has been an imperative part of England, as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) might be setting the eye on the 2019 ICC World Cup by leaving out the bowler from Test fold.

“So, I’m at a real crossroads at the minute actually of whether I decide to pursue a career in Twenty20 cricket and one-day cricket and leave my dreams of Test cricket behind,” Willey asserted.

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The promising English professional Willey further admitted the fact that he has been deprived of sleep before setting the horizon on the cash-rich league in Australia.

“I’ll have some sleepless nights thinking about that,” Willey added.

Earlier, in the first two editions of the BBL Willey claimed 17 wickets for Scorchers and this time around he is hoping to give his best with the ball and the bat as well.

“They’re all things I need to weigh up and yes it would be great to play Test cricket but I’m 27 now and how long would I play Test cricket for?” Willey stated.

Moreover, Willey, who has set his dream to don the white jersey for England somewhat, felt that he won’t be able to follow the footsteps of his father, Peter Willey.

Interestingly, Peter represented England in 26 Tests, as Willey believes further thought about his family and the coping of the body in general.

“For me now it’s thinking about my body, my family, how long I want to be away from home,” Willey concluded.

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Following the successful stints in the BBL, Willey, who can swing the ball, has been working hard to come in good stead under the tutelage of Justin Langer.

In 2015-16 edition, Willey played an integral part which saw Scorchers making it to the semi-final.

It’s important to state that Scorchers will player their BBL 07 opener on December 23 (Saturday) against Sydney Sixers at SCG.

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In limited-overs format, Willey featured in 31 ODIs and 16 T20Is.