Photo Credit: Perth Scorchers
Perth Scorchers have appointed Aaron Hardie to captain the side for the remainder of the KFC BBL|13 season.
The allrounder, who turns 25 next month, steps into the role after full-time skipper Ashton Turner underwent season-ending knee surgery on Friday. Wicketkeeper-batter Josh Inglis remains vice-captain.
Hardie has shown promise as a leader since joining the Scorchers and WA in 2018-19.
He captained WA to silverware at the 2017 Cricket Australia National Under 19s Championship and spent several years in the Hussey Group – a development program for young leaders at WA Cricket.
In April, Hardie took the reins for the second unofficial Test between Australia A and New Zealand A in Lincoln, striking the game’s only century despite tricky batting conditions.
A regular contributor at tactical and planning meetings for Perth and WA, Hardie has also established himself as one of the Scorchers’ key pillars on field.
The powerful right-hander was promoted to number three during BBL|12 and finished as the competition’s leading run-scorer with 460 runs at 41.81. No Scorcher has scored more runs in a single MBBL campaign.
Between times, Hardie debuted for Australia in ODI and T20I cricket, playing regularly during white ball tours of South Africa and India.
His 85no from 45 deliveries paved the way for Perth’s nine-wicket win versus Hobart Hurricanes at Optus Stadium on Wednesday.
Hardie’s first assignment as Scorchers captain is against Melbourne Renegades on Boxing Day.
Quotes attributable to Perth Scorchers stand-in captain Aaron Hardie:
“First and foremost, we’re all wishing AT (Ashton Turner) a speedy recovery. He’s been a fantastic captain and player for a long time, and certainly somebody the squad looks up to.
“Personally, it’s a privilege to lead this team in his absence, and a challenge I’m keen to embrace.
“We have plenty of experience and leadership within the side. One of our great strengths is we’re comfortable using that experience and knowledge to make the team better as a collective.
“I’m sure the whole squad will remain focused and united to give us the best chance of winning another title.”
Quotes attributable to Perth Scorchers Head Coach Adam Voges:
“Clearly losing AT is disappointing, but his injury presents an opportunity for Aaron to display his leadership skills during the tournament.
“We have long viewed Aaron as a leader of promise. He has been part of WA and Perth Scorchers leadership programs and certainly has the trust of his teammates, both on-field and off.
“He will have plenty of support from those around him – the coaches, vice-captain Josh Inglis, and the rest of a very experienced playing squad.
“We have full faith the group will rally around Aaron and attack the rest of the season with the same intensity and focus that has brought us success in recent years.”
