Shadab Khan all set for his Big Bash debut

19-year-old Shadab Khan is Pakistan’s latest spin sensation. He is an all-rounder who has the ability to contribute with the bat but he is known for his streetsmart bowling. He has been roped in by Brisbane Heat for the latest edition of the Big Bash League, which will kickstart from tomorrow. Khan will make his BBL debut against Melbourne Stars at the Gabba, the home ground of the Heats.

Khan made his international debut across the three formats in 2017 is the one to look out for. Captain Brendon McCullum and coach Daniel Vettori has expectations from the young sensation and he looks set to deliver big down-under.

McCullum said that he is excited to play along with Shadab. The duo played together in the Caribbean Premier League. “I’m very excited about Shadab,” said McCullum after signing a two-year contract extension with the Heat. I played with him (in the Caribbean Premier League) and followed his career around the globe. He’s only a young man but he’s already made a big impact on world cricket. He is a multi-skilled cricketer. He is dynamic in the field and has been brilliant with the bat in hand.

McCullum backs Shadab to come good

The skipper also added that he hopes the fans will greet him and wish him well as Shadab joins the Heat family. “I’m sure the Brisbane public will be warm to him.”

Windies T20 specialist Samuel Badree and Aussie tweaker Mitch Swepson turned out for the Heats last year and their good performance has encouraged the franchise to sign in Shadab. The youngster will be replaced by his countryman Yasir Shah later as the tournament progresses. “Last year I saw the Big Bash on the TV and now I’m playing,” he said.

“I’ll play the first three games and I want to be the best bowler in those games. I’ve seen on TV that Australia doesn’t spin too much so I’ll do my best to bowl variations to contain runs and take wickets.” Shadab said.

The Heats are not sure about Chris Lynn playing their first game. Lynn has recovered from a shoulder injury and didn’t participate in the two practice games. McCullum said that the team were a bit hesitant to try Lynn for the first game.

“It’s hard because you don’t win the competition in mid-December, you win it late January. We’re hopeful he’ll play but if not, there are some guys who are pretty exciting players in their own right. They have watched Lynny play over a number of years,” the former Kiwi skipper stated.