Rashid Khan, the Afghan sensation and Adelaide Strikers’ spin maestro, has withdrawn from the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season, opting for back surgery, dealing a blow to the franchise ahead of the tournament’s commencement.

This marks the second setback for the BBL after Harry Brook’s withdrawal last week. While the nature of Khan’s injury remains shrouded, uncertainties loom over his participation in other T20 leagues this year, casting doubts on his availability beyond the BBL.

Despite a relatively subdued performance last season, managing only six wickets in eight matches, Khan remains the Strikers’ leading wicket-taker in the league’s history, boasting an impressive tally of 98 wickets in 69 games.

Adelaide Strikers’ General Manager of cricket, Tim Nielsen, expressed support for Rashid Khan during his injury treatment and assured the swift selection of a replacement player. Nielsen conveyed his sentiments, acknowledging Khan’s significance to the Strikers and the league, stating:

“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… We support him as he has treatment for this injury to ensure his long-term involvement in the game.”

The franchise, now tasked with finding a replacement for the star spinner, aims to swiftly fill the void created by Khan’s absence ahead of the tournament kick-off on December 7th. As the Strikers seek alternatives, fans await the unveiling of Rashid Khan’s replacement in due course.

With the BBL’s 13th season set to commence, the absence of the Afghan stalwart adds intrigue to the tournament’s dynamics, as teams gear up to battle for T20 supremacy.