Afghanistan superstar Rashid Khan, the world's top-ranked T20I bowler, has rescinded his earlier decision to boycott the Big Bash League (BBL). As per reports from cricket.com.au, Rashid has formally communicated his intent to compete in the forthcoming seventh edition of the BBL.
This development comes following the dispute in January 2023, wherein Rashid had aired the possibility of abstaining from the BBL. The star cricketer's protest stemmed from Cricket Australia's decision to cancel their white-ball series against Afghanistan, a move driven by concerns over human rights issues in the latter country. Specifically, the suspension of university education for girls in Afghanistan by the Taliban was the primary trigger for the cancellation.
Rashid had been vocally critical of Cricket Australia's stance, underscoring his discontent and unease with the move. He went on to indicate that he might refrain from participating in the BBL to circumvent any potential discomfort his presence could generate.
Rashid's journey in professional cricket began at 19, and ever since, he's been a pivotal asset for the Adelaide Strikers. Throughout his tenure with the Strikers, Rashid has consistently showcased his exceptional wicket-taking ability. Notably, in the preceding year, he was the second-choice pick in the BBL draft. Demonstrating their confidence in him, the Strikers exercised their retention rights, ensuring he remained with them, despite the Melbourne Stars' efforts to lure him away.
As the BBL draft on September 3 draws closer, cricketing circles anticipate that the Strikers, armed with the second pick, will once again opt for Rashid. If selected, he is likely to feature in the BBL until his commitments call him to the T20 league in South Africa, where he represents the Mumbai Indians-owned Cape Town franchise. That league kicks off on January 10. Should he remain with the Strikers, Rashid can potentially play in as many as eight games.
Cricket Australia, while standing by its decision to cancel matches against Afghanistan, has expressed its openness to welcoming Rashid and his Afghan compatriots to the BBL. This sentiment is echoed as other Afghan cricketers like Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmed, and Izharulhaq Naveed are also on the draft list, having played in Australia during the previous season.
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