Rashid Khan to miss BBL for second consecutive year: Report
What's the story
Afghanistan's talismanic leg-spinner Rashid Khan, has decided not to participate in the Big Bash League (BBL) draft for the 2024-25 season. This marks his second consecutive year of absence from the tournament. Despite talents like Shamar Joseph and Lockie Ferguson entering the draft, Rashid's decision has become a significant talking point in cricket circles. Here are further details.
Team response
Adelaide Strikers informed of Rashid's decision
According to AAP, Rashid's management has communicated his decision to the Adelaide Strikers, the team he has represented in previous seasons. The franchise expressed no ill feelings toward Rashid for his decision and stated they are prepared to welcome him back in future tournaments. This response indicates a continued positive relationship between the player and his former BBL team.
Stats
Sensational numbers for Adelaide Strikers
Rashid, who debuted in BBL in 2017, has played for the Adelaide Strikers over the last six seasons. He has claimed 98 wickets in 69 BBL games at an economy rate of just 6.44. No other bowler has claimed more wickets for the Strikers. His economy is the best among bowlers with 50 or more BBL wickets. He also owns a BBL hat-trick.
CA perspective
Cricket Australia's stance on Rashid's decision
Cricket Australia (CA) has clarified that Rashid's decision to skip the BBL draft is not influenced by any tensions between national teams. This statement comes after CA chose not to play a bilateral series against Afghanistan due to the Taliban's views on women's rights, a move that disappointed Rashid. However, CA believes that scheduling conflicts are the primary reason behind his decision.
Future plans
Rashid's upcoming commitments and potential scheduling conflicts
Rashid recently played for Trent Rockets in The Hundred before suffering an injury. He is set to participate in a series against Zimbabwe in December and represent MI New York in the third edition of SA20. With the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy scheduled for February, there are efforts to wrap up franchise tournaments quickly to avoid clashes with other leagues like the South African league.