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Adelaide Strikers received unsettling news as Rashid Khan, the Afghanistan leg-spinner, opted out of the upcoming Big Bash League season 13 due to a back injury necessitating minor surgery.
The Strikers made an official announcement on Thursday, citing Rashid’s requirement for a “minor operation,” leading to his withdrawal from the season.
Expressing the team’s sentiments, Adelaide Strikers General Manager of Cricket, Tim Nielsen, acknowledged the substantial blow to their side. He emphasized Rashid’s integral presence within the Strikers’ roster for seven years, acknowledging his status as a fan favorite.
Nielsen stated, “Rashid Khan is a cherished member of the Strikers, and his absence this summer will be deeply felt. His attachment to Adelaide and the Strikers is profound, and we wholeheartedly support his treatment for this injury, prioritizing his enduring involvement in the game.”
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Regarding the team’s strategy, Nielsen mentioned, “Our management and coaching staff are actively exploring options to replace Rashid for the impending season. An announcement about a replacement player will follow in due course.”
Despite Rashid’s withdrawal, the Strikers will retain retention rights for him in future BBL seasons. The Afghan spinner has been a consistent presence in every season since his breakthrough at the age of 19, where he emerged as the leading wicket-taker in BBL 7.
This development marks another setback for the BBL following the recent announcement by the Melbourne Stars about Harry Brook’s withdrawal from the competition.