BBL 2018-19: Melbourne Renegades rope in Harry Gurney and Usman Shinwari

Melbourne Renegades franchise has recently drafted in Pakistan left-arm speedster Usman Khan Shinwari and England left-armer Harry Gurney for the upcoming edition of the Big Bash League (BBL). However, both won’t be playing the next season together. Shinwari is set to the play the first seven matches of the league after which Gurney will replace him.

Shinwari made his international debut last year and has already played quite a few matches for the Men in Green, his last match being the third T20I against New Zealand this week at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The 24-year-old seamer expressed his excitement after getting picked to play in Australia’s domestic T20 tournament.

“I have watched the Big Bash with interest in recent years and I’ve been impressed with the quality of the competition. I’m hoping I can bring something different to the team with my bowling and help the Renegades push for success,” Shinwari was quoted as saying in the Renegades’ official website.

There is plenty of talent in the Renegades squad

Gurney first donned the national colours back in 2014 and has only featured in 10 ODIs and a couple of T20Is. However, he went out of the selectors’ radar from that year as well. He was ecstatic after the selection and said that Daniel Christian, with whom he had played last winter, told him highly about the competition.

“Dan spoke very positively about the competition so to get an opportunity to come and play with the Renegades is something I’m really grateful for. I’ve had a fair bit of experience in T20 cricket in England so I’m really excited to test myself in Australian conditions.

I have admired the BBL from afar for a few years and am thrilled to get an opportunity to play in the comp. There is plenty of talent in the Renegades squad so hopefully I can come in and play my role for the team and help us have a strong season,” Gurney mentioned.

Melbourne Renegades are scheduled to open their campaign next season with their match against Perth Scorchers at Docklands Stadium in Melbourne on Thursday, December 20, the second day of the competition.

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