Who becomes the first Afghan cricketer to play for the Big Bash League?

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Rashid Khan becomes the first Afghan cricketer to sign in Big Bash League. File Pic

Internet Desk: Afghanistan spin bowling sensation Rashid Khan becomes the first cricketer from his nation who will play in Australia’s domestic T20 league. He has signed for Adelaide Strikers for the seventh season of the Big Bash League.

Rashid became the first bowler to take a hat-trick in the history of the Caribbean Premier League few days back. He played well too for Sunrisers Hyderabad during the Indian Premier League Season 10.

“I am very happy to have signed with the Strikers for the BBL,” Rashid said. “It is a huge honour to be a part of such a great tournament and even more of an honour to be the first Afghanistan player to participate on the BBL stage. I look forward to linking up with my Strikers teammates and backroom staff.”

Adelaide Strikers coach Jason Gillespie too looked very happy with the signing of the star leg-spinner. He is the second overseas player who have signed for strikers after South African power hitter Colin Ingram. “Rashid has set the world alight in T20 cricket with his energy, enthusiasm, and great control for a young guy,” he said. “He has some great variations, can bowl stump-to-stump and can be very hard to pick. We’re delighted to be able to offer him the opportunity to play for the Adelaide Strikers.”

Current squad: Wes Agar, Alex Carey, Jono Dean, Ben Laughlin, Jake Lehmann, Michael Neser, Peter Siddle, Billy Stanlake, Jake Weatherald, Colin Ingram (overseas), Rashid Khan (overseas)