The Hobart Hurricanes have effectively replaced Afghanistan star Qais Ahmed with wrist-spinner Wil Parker ahead of the 2020-21 Big Bash League in Australia.
Ahmed took a dozen wickets in 15 matches during the 2019-20 BBL. He was the franchise's joint second-highest wicket-taker alongside seamer Nathan Ellis that season.
What Parker Said
“I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to be part of the Hurricanes program”, said Parker.
“The Big Bash is one of the best T20 competitions in the world and to have the chance to play with and against the best players in the world is a dream come true.
“It's a huge opportunity for me to work with head coach Adam Griffith and the coaching staff to develop my game over the next two seasons.”
What the Hurricanes Said
Parker is just 18 years old and has never played T20 cricket at professional level. His most recent competitive cricket was a first-class appearance for Victoria in the Sheffield Shield in March 2020.
“Wil is a young spinner who came onto the scene last year for Victoria, but we have been following his development for some time now”, added Griffith.
“We are always on the lookout for young talented players to give an opportunity to, and I am looking forward to seeing what he can do at this level. Spinners who can take the ball both ways off the wicket are important to have on your list and he can definitely do this.”
Malan Joins Hurricanes, Too
The Hurricanes have also contracted England batsman Dawid Malan for the 2020-21 BBL. Malan is currently the number one-ranked batsman in T20I cricket.
“I'm very excited to have someone of Dawid's talent and experience join the team. He is a proven performer at T20 cricket on the international stage and I'm looking forward to seeing him hopefully replicate that for the Hurricanes,” added Griffith.
“I spent some time with him when he was playing at Middlesex and he will fit into our group very well.”
The Hurricanes are still without a maiden BBL title. They have lost two finals. The Sydney Sixers are the current champions. They beat the Melbourne Stars in the final earlier this year.
