Scorchers and Laurie Evans part ways after positive doping Test

The Perth Scorchers have terminated the contract of Laurie Evans following testing positive to a banned substance.

Evans was retained by the Scorchers during the inaugural BBL draft.

In a statement the Scorchers said: "Due to the circumstances, the Scorchers and Laurie and his management have decided to mutually terminate his contract for the 2022-23 KFC Big Bash League season. The Club will explore its options to source a replacement player for the tournament, which begins on Saturday 17 December against the Sydney Sixers at Optus Stadium."

Evans released a statement via England's Professional Cricketers Association.

“I was shocked to be told that an anti-doping sample I provided in August 2022 tested positive for trace amounts of a banned substance,” Evans said.

“I believe passionately in clean sport and I have never taken any banned substances.

“I do not know what caused the positive test, but my team and I are investigating how this could have happened and I am doing everything possible to find out.

“Due to the confidentiality of the process, I cannot say any more at this stage, but I would like to thank my family for supporting me at this very distressing time.”

IMAGE: cricket.com.au