Adelaide Strikers have suffered a devastating blow heading into the Big Bash season, with star leg-spinner and No.1 overall draft pick Rashid Khan ruled out due to a back injury.
The 25-year-old Afghanistan international has been one of the biggest names in the tournament in recent seasons, taking 98 wickets in 69 games for the South Australian franchise.
Khan recently featured in the ODI World Cup, but has since learned he will require surgery for the issue, which has led to the bombshell decision just two weeks out from the BBL|13 campaign kicking off.
The world-class bowler isn't the only high-profile star to withdraw from this year's competition, with English batsman Harry Brook also pulling out from the Melbourne Stars.
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Rashid Khan ruled out of Big Bash League season
In a statement released on Thursday afternoon, Strikers general manager Tim Nielsen admitted the news would be tough for the side to overcome.
“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,” he 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.
“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.”
At this stage, no replacement has been touted for the Strikers, who also have Ben Manenti as a spin option on their roster for the BBL|13 season.
Adelaide Strikers BBL squad
Wes Agar, James Bazley*, Cameron Boyce, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett*, Travis Head, Henry Hunt, Thomas Kelly, Chris Lynn, Ben Manenti, D'Arcy Short*, Matt Short, Henry Thornton, Rashid Khan, Jamie Overton, Adam Hose, Jake Weatherald, Harry Nielsen
Adelaide Strikers squad news
Rashid Khan has withdrawn from the squad for BBL|13 season due to a back injury, leaving a gaping hole in the squad. Explosive top-order batsman and part-time spinner D'arcy Short will join the Strikers this season, while the club's seam-bowling stocks have been boosted by the additions of Brendan Doggett and James Bazley.