In a significant blow to the Adelaide Strikers, star leg-spinner Rashid Khan has withdrawn from the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) due to a back injury. The 25-year-old, a vital part of the Strikers’ success in clinching the maiden BBL title in 2018, will undergo a minor operation to address the issue. The announcement was made by the Strikers in an official statement on Thursday, leaving the team without a key player as they gear up for the BBL season.
Long-Time Striker Rashid Khan Faces Injury Setback
Rashid Khan, who has been an integral part of the Adelaide Strikers for seven years, is a fan favorite known for his exceptional spin bowling skills. The leg-spinner’s absence will undoubtedly be felt by the team and the fans as they prepare for the upcoming BBL season. Strikers General Manager Cricket, Tim Nielsen, expressed the team’s sentiments, stating, “Rashid is a beloved member of the Strikers, and a fan favourite who has been with us for seven years, so he will be extremely missed this summer.”
The decision for Rashid Khan to withdraw from the BBL is a result of a back injury that requires medical attention. The leg-spinner will undergo a minor operation to address the issue and ensure his long-term involvement in the game. The Strikers’ management expressed their support for Khan’s decision to prioritize treatment, emphasizing the player’s dedication to Adelaide and the BBL.
With Rashid Khan ruled out, the Strikers’ list management and coaching staff are now tasked with evaluating replacement options for the upcoming BBL season. A replacement player is expected to be announced in due course as the team looks to fill the void left by the star spinner. The withdrawal of Khan marks the second consecutive year of a No. 1 Draft pick pulling out, following Liam Livingstone’s withdrawal from the Melbourne Renegades last year.
Rashid Khan’s Remarkable BBL Career
Since making his debut for the Strikers in 2017, Rashid Khan has been a consistent performer in the BBL. The Afghan spinner has taken an impressive 98 wickets at an average of 17.51, making him one of the most successful bowlers in the tournament. Notably, no cricketer has taken more BBL wickets at a lower average than Khan, showcasing his prowess in the T20 format. His remarkable contributions earned him the ICC’s Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Decade title.
The Adelaide Strikers are set to commence their BBL campaign on Saturday, December 9, facing the Brisbane Heat at the Adelaide Oval. The absence of Rashid Khan poses a challenge for the team, and the upcoming matches will test the Strikers’ ability to adapt to the new circumstances.
