Photo Credit: Brisbane Heat
International spinner Mujeeb Ur Rahman has joined the Brisbane Heat today in Canberra after being released from hospital on the Gold Coast in the wake of a positive COVID-19 test while in mandatory hotel quarantine.
The Afghanistan star will potentially be available for Monday night’s KFC Big Bash League game against the Sydney Thunder at Manuka Oval.
The Heat lost their opening game of the tournament last night, with the Melbourne Stars winning by six wickets.
Mujeeb was cleared to join the Heat yesterday and arrangements were made to bring him to Canberra to begin his BBL campaign, the third season he has been with the Heat.
Currently the ICC’s number two ranked T20 International spinner, Mujeeb has taken 15 wickets in 18 BBL games, with an economy rate of 6.08.
Heat captain Chris Lynn told media post-game that he hoped Mujeeb would be available as early as the Thunder match on Monday night.
“Hopefully Mujeeb is available next game,’’ he said.
“He’s really upbeat. He can’t wait to play. He has been part of our Heat family for a number of years now.
“He’s a world-class player and can be a game changer.”
Brisbane had four players make their debuts last night, including Queensland Bulls players Xavier Bartlett and Jack Wood, each of whom took a wicket in their opening over in BBL with 21-year-old Bartlett adding a rare wicket maiden to his resume.
The Heat will also monitor the availability of Australia ‘A’ duo Mark Steketee and Jack Wildermuth ahead of Monday’s game, with their pink-ball three-day game at the SCG due to finish tomorrow evening.
Brisbane will train tomorrow at Manuka Oval from 4pm.
