Win Projections to be updated soon
Cricket Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) has received a significant boost with the announcement that Rashid Khan, the world’s top-ranked T20 bowler, will participate in the upcoming tournament this summer. This news comes as a welcome relief for fans and officials, as Rashid had earlier threatened to boycott the BBL in response to Australia’s decision to withdraw from a white-ball series against Afghanistan on human rights grounds.
Rashid had earlier threatened to pull out of the BBL
In January, Rashid’s declaration to potentially quit the BBL made headlines, stemming from his disappointment over Cricket Australia’s cancellation of the series with Afghanistan due to the Taliban’s restrictions on girls’ education. At the time, Rashid had expressed, “If playing Afghanistan is so uncomfortable for Australia, then I wouldn’t want to make anyone uncomfortable with my presence in the BBL. Therefore, I will be strongly considering my future in that competition.”
However, recent developments have revealed a change of heart from the Afghan star. The official list of players available for the overseas draft will be disclosed on Monday, but reliable sources have confirmed that the 24-year-old Rashid Khan has indeed nominated himself to be part of the BBL.
Cricket Australia welcomes Afghani players
Cricket Australia had reiterated its stance on abstaining from matches against Afghanistan but also expressed that players from the nation, including Rashid Khan, were welcome to participate in the BBL. Fellow Afghan players Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmed, and Izharulhaq Naveed have also joined the draft after their successful stint in Australia last summer.
Rashid Khan’s commitment to the Strikers is expected to boost the team’s prospects. As a first-round retention pick, he will contribute significantly to the franchise’s campaign. The charismatic Afghan cricketer, who made a name for himself in Australia during the 2017-18 season, is a prime asset for the Strikers. His exceptional record of 98 wickets, the highest for any overseas player in the BBL, coupled with an average of 17.51 and an economy rate of 6.44, solidify his position as a sought-after bowler.
Will BBL coincide with ILT20?
The decision for Rashid to participate in the BBL provides cricket enthusiasts with much to look forward to. His presence on the field and his remarkable skill set are bound to captivate fans across the globe. As the BBL’s most marketable overseas star, Rashid Khan’s return to the league is a testament to his dedication to the sport and his commitment to continue enchanting cricket lovers.
In addition to Rashid’s announcement, the commencement date of the lucrative ILT20 has been confirmed for January 19 next year. This timeline will enable most of the BBL’s overseas stars to extend their participation into the Australian regular season. While players like David Warner have committed to the ILT20, their involvement will be subject to clearance from Cricket Australia and scheduling that avoids clashes with BBL and national commitments.
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