New Zealand pacer Adam Milne has been signed by Melbourne Stars for a short-term assignment at the beginning of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2024. Adam Milne is taking over as a replacement for Pakistan leg-spinner Usama Mir. Mir will miss the first three matches of the season as the dates clash with some national commitments.
Milne has previously played for the Syndey Thunder in the 2020-21 BBL Season. He shall be available for matches against Perth Scorchers, Brisbane Heat, and Adelaide Strikers.
“To be able to secure someone of Adam’s talent and experience is a huge boost for the squad,” said Melbourne Stars General Manager Blair Crouch. “Adam knows Australian conditions well, and we value what he will add to the squad. We look forward to seeing what he can produce.”, he added.
Melbourne Stars Struggling With Players’ Absence
The Melbourne Stars are navigating a challenging start to the BBL season with several key players unavailable. Their skipper Glenn Maxwell is recovering from a hamstring injury. He is unlikely to feature in the first game against Perth Scorchers on December 15.
Scott Boland’s inclusion in Australia’s Test squad for the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy has further thinned the Stars’ bowling resources. All-rounder Beau Webster might also miss the opening match as he remains with the Test squad.
England Test opener Ben Duckett is another absentee for the initial games, as he completes his Test duties in New Zealand. The Stars have brought in Joe Clarke, who previously played for the franchise, as a temporary replacement for Duckett.
Devon Conway to Miss Final England Test for the Birth Birth of His First Child
Melbourne Renegades and Hobart Hurricanes Make Changes Ahead of the Season
Meanwhile, Melbourne Renegades have signed USA spin-bowling all-rounder Hassan Khan as a replacement player. Hassan, who starred in Major League Cricket for San Francisco Unicorns, is set to contribute with both bat and ball.
“Hassan is an exciting young talent who gives us options in both departments,” said Renegades General Manager James Rosengarten. “His ability to contribute in those important middle overs with the ball and add valuable runs down the order will be crucial.”
The Hobart Hurricanes have also strengthened their squad by signing Afghanistan left-arm wrist-spinner Waqar Salamkheil. Salamkheil replaces Rishad Hossain, who is unavailable due to Bangladesh Premier League commitments. Salamkheil, who impressed in the Caribbean Premier League, will feature in the first six games of the BBL season before departing for the ILT20 in January.
“Waqar adds a different element to our bowling line-up and is a tremendous young talent,” said Hurricanes High-Performance Manager Salliann Beams.
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