Adelaide Strikers land Pakistan speedster Haris Rauf for BBL 16

ADELAIDE: Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf has signed with Adelaide Strikers for the 16th edition of the Big Bash League (BBL), where he will share the dressing room with former England captain Ben Stokes.

The 32-year-old pacer previously represented Melbourne Stars for five seasons, featuring in 33 matches and claiming 56 wickets at an average of 16.48.His record also includes a hat-trick.

Rauf enjoyed an impressive previous campaign, taking 20 wickets and becoming the 10th bowler in BBL history to register a hat-trick.

Adelaide Strikers head coach Tim Paine welcomed the Pakistani fast bowler, describing him as an experienced match-winner with the ability to change games through his pace and performance.

Paine said Rauf’s international and franchise cricket experience would strengthen the squad and bring excitement to Adelaide Oval throughout the tournament.

Expressing his excitement, Rauf said he was looking forward to joining the Strikers and playing at Adelaide Oval, a venue he has always enjoyed.

He also praised the team’s squad, highlighting the opportunity to play alongside internationally recognised players, including Ben Stokes, Matt Short and New Zealand batter Mark Chapman.

The Strikers have already secured Stokes and Chapman for the entire tournament, adding further international experience to their lineup.

The opening match of BBL 16 will see Sydney Thunder face Adelaide Strikers in Canberra on December 16.