Perth Scorchers sign Marcus Harris for late season arsenal boost

In a recent turn of events, Marcus Harris, the seasoned batter who narrowly missed a Test recall, is set to bolster the ranks of the defending champions, Perth Scorchers, as they gear up for the crucial closing stages of the Big Bash League (BBL).

The Scorchers, who are navigating through a few setbacks with Zak Crawley on England Test duty and Laurie Evans unavailable due to an ILT20 deal, have strategically roped in Harris to fortify their lineup. The move comes in the wake of their recent victory against Brisbane Heat, securing a coveted spot in the top four. However, the road ahead is filled with challenges, particularly a pivotal clash against Sydney Sixers on Tuesday, determining their path to the Qualifier.

Harris, who didn't secure a BBL deal initially, now finds himself back in the familiar territory of Perth Scorchers, a team he graced between 2014 and 2016, contributing in 14 matches. His return to the squad provides a timely boost, adding depth to their batting order for the upcoming battles.

Notably, Harris' inclusion doesn't hinge on facing the Sixers; local replacement players, unlike overseas signings, enjoy the flexibility of participating directly in the finals without a regular-season appearance.

The seasoned campaigner boasts a commendable T20 record, amassing 981 runs at an average of 20.43, showcasing a formidable strike rate of 121.71. Despite being overlooked for a Test comeback recently, Harris remains focused on making an impact in the T20 format, and his experience might just be the missing piece in the Scorchers' pursuit of an unprecedented hat-trick of BBL titles.

Talking about the Scorchers' performance in the current BBL, they have competed in nine matches, securing six victories. They faced defeat in two matches, and one encounter resulted in a No Result due to rain. Presently, they hold the second position on the points table, trailing behind the Brisbane Heat, who lead the table with seven wins in ten matches.