Why is Rashid Khan ruled out of BBL 2023-24?

Cricket News: Why is Rashid Khan ruled out of BBL 2023-24? | Why Afghanistan legspinner Rashid Khan won’t play in BBL 2023-24

Afghanistan and Adelaide Strikers favourite Rashid Khan has been ruled out of the upcoming 2023-24 Big Bash League (BBL) season due to a back injury. The news comes as a blow not only to the Strikers, but to the competition as a whole as the legspinner is one of the star players who increases both crowd and viewership figures.

The Strikers are currently seeking a replacement, but it certainly won’t be easy. Since making his BBL debut in 2017, Rashid has taken 98 wickets in 69 matches at an average of 17.51 and superb economy rate of 6.44. This includes many memorable moments including helping the Strikers win the BBL in 2018 and taking a hat-trick in 2020.

Rashid Khan will be “extremely missed” in BBL 2023-24 – Adelaide Strikers

Strikers General Manager of Cricket Tim Nielsen released a statement. He said Rashid Khan’s unavailability is a big blow and the team will announce a replacement in due course.

“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,” Nielsen said.

“Rashid loves Adelaide and the Strikers, and we know how much he loves playing in the BBL, and we support him as he has treatment for this injury to ensure his long-term involvement in the game.

“Our list management and coaching staff will now look at our options for replacing Rashid for the upcoming season and a replacement player will be announced in due course.”

Harry Brook, who was a number one draft pick for Melbourne Stars, also pulled out of the tournament recently, citing international commitments and workload management.

The 2023-24 season of the BBL kicks off on 7 December at the Gabba where Brisbane Heat will take on the Melbourne Stars. This season will have a reduced number games (44) compared to recent seasons where 61 matches were played.