Daijiworld Media Network - Adelaide
Adelaide, Nov 2: Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf will represent Adelaide Strikers in the 16th edition of the Big Bash League (BBL), with the franchise securing his services for the entire tournament following his five-season stint with Melbourne Stars.
Rauf joins England's Ben Stokes and New Zealand's Mark Chapman as overseas players available throughout the competition. The Strikers will hope the Pakistan pacer brings his experience and wicket-taking ability at crucial stages as they aim to mount a strong title challenge.
Rauf has an impressive Big Bash record, having claimed 56 wickets during his stint with the Melbourne Stars. His best individual performance came against Hobart Hurricanes, when he registered career-best figures of 5-27.
His BBL journey began in the ninth edition after an injury to South African great Dale Steyn opened the door for his entry into the competition. Rauf made an immediate impact, finishing the campaign with 20 wickets, including a hat-trick against Sydney Thunder at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
His impressive performances earned him a place in the Team of the Tournament. He received the honour again in BBL 14 after taking 18 wickets and winning the Golden Arm award as the competition's leading wicket-taker.
Strikers coach Tim Paine believes Rauf's arrival will provide a significant boost to the team.
"Haris is a proven match-winner who has performed at the highest level in international cricket and franchise competitions around the world. Strikers fans are going to love watching him steam in at Adelaide Oval. He's one of the fastest bowlers in world cricket and has the ability to change a game in an instant.
"He's an exciting player, a fierce competitor and someone who will bring plenty of energy to our group. Having all of our international players available for the entire tournament was a key priority throughout our off-season and we believe it will be a significant advantage for our side," Paine said in a club statement.
Rauf also expressed excitement about beginning a new chapter in the Big Bash, particularly at a venue where he has enjoyed success in the past.
"I can't wait to get started with the Adelaide Strikers. Adelaide Oval is one of the great cricket venues in the world and I've always enjoyed playing there. The Strikers have a strong squad with world-class players like Ben Stokes, Matt Short and Mark Chapman, so I'm really excited about the opportunity to play alongside them," Rauf said.