NEWS
Follow UsIn a bid to qualify for the knockout stages of the ongoing Big Bash League, Brisbane Heat have announced the signing of Fakhar Zaman as Abell’s replacement. Heading into the 2022 year, the Heat find themselves joint-fifth, alongside Melbourne Stars with a real opportunity to make it to the knock-out stage.
Despite Pakistan making it to the semi-final of the World T20 earlier this year, Zaman’s influence on the team was minimal, averaging just 26.33 at a strike-rate of 123.82, with his unbeaten half-century against Australia being a vital knock. Zaman provides the Heat with a real versatility, with the ability to bat anywhere in the top three.
"Fakhar will join us in Melbourne ahead of the game against the [Melbourne] Renegades [on January 6]," Wade Seccombe, the Heat's head coach, said.
However, with restrictions in Queensland, the left-hander would have to spend 14 days outside the state before being available for selection.
"Due to Queensland's current border restrictions, he will need to spend 14 days outside of the state before he can play in Queensland.”
"We are pleased he will be with us for what are shaping as key games. He is a classy performer who gets the job done in the teams he has played for so we are confident he can settle in quickly."
On the other hand, Abell, who injured his knee and has now returned to the UK where he will now recover. However, it is not yet certain whether Abell would be part of the PSL season.