Brisbane Heat recruit Pakistan leggie Shadab Khan for BBL 2017

After a dazzling stint in Caribbean Premier League (CPL), the Pakistani teenager, Shadab Khan is all set to play for Brisbane Heat in the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL). The leg-spinner has been signed as their second overseas player, the franchise confirmed on Thursday (31 August).

In his short career, Shadab has already created ripples with his leg-breaks at the International stage and took the world by storm with some exceptional performances. What adds the cherry to the cake for Shadab is the fact that he will play under former New Zealand skipper, Brendon McCullum, with whom he is currently sharing space in the CPL for Trinbago Knight Riders.

Shadab follows the line of leg-spinners that Pakistan has produced in the past three decades and has gained invaluable learning from his partner in crime, Yasir Shah. His rise has been quite stellar in International cricket which eventually has helped him earn CPL and BBL contract.

Vettori terms Shadab as ‘Dynamic young spinner’

After signing 18-year-old lad, Brisbane Heat head coach Daniel Vettori said, “He is one of the most dynamic young spinners in the game and will fit nicely into the style of play that we want to employ this summer.”

“I know Brendon has been highly impressed with him as a teammate in the CPL and we’re looking forward to working with him when he arrives. As well as his ability with the ball, he’s got some good skills with the bat and is handy in the field,” he was quoted by Cricbuzz.

Vettori took this as an opportunity to also thank West Indian spinner Samuel Badree for his services over the years. Badree will not feature in the squad after Shadab’s recruitment. He said, “We wish him all the best and thank him for being an important part of things with the Heat over the years.”

The Pakistani leggie is all set to play for Brisbane Heat this summer and test his bowling skills. “It is a very professional League with many great players, so it will be a good test for me when I get there,” he said.

“I am enjoying playing in the same team as Brendon with the Knight Riders and look forward to meeting my other teammates with the Brisbane Heat and practicing with the coach Daniel Vettori very soon,” Shadab added.