Follow UsIn what comes as a devastating blow for the Adelaide Strikers ahead of the forthcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season, Rashid Khan has pulled out of BBL13 due to a back injury.
The 25-year-old, who is the all-time highest wicket-taker for the Strikers with 98 wickets in just 68 appearances, is set to undergo back surgery for the said injury, which is set to rule him out of the entirety of the upcoming season, which will commence on Thursday, December 7th.
The Strikers retained Rashid in the draft earlier this year after the Melbourne Stars tried to pinch the leg-spinner with the first pick in the draft.
"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," Adelaide Strikers GM of Cricket Tim Nielsen told cricket.com.au.
"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.”
Nielsen confirmed that a replacement for Rashid will be revealed in due course.
"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."
Rashid is the second superstar to pull out of the forthcoming season. Earlier, Harry Brook, who was snapped up by the Melbourne Stars, withdrew from the competition citing fatigue.
The 2023/24 season of the BBL will commence on December 7th at the Gabba, with the Stars taking on Brisbane Heat.