Photo Credit: Melbourne Renegades
The Melbourne Renegades are thrilled to welcome back the West Indian spinner as an Overseas Replacement Player for the Renegades’ final two games of the KFC BBL|13 home and away season.
The crafty left arm orthodox spinner was one of three selections in last season’s inaugural BBL Overseas Draft and returns to the Renegades looking to continue his strong T20 form with West Indies and in T20 competitions around the world.
The 30-year-old took 13 wickets from his nine matches in BBL|12, at 17.38 average and 6.46 economy rate. His figures included three three-wicket hauls, the first of which came on debut in the Renegades’ win over the Heat in Cairns. Hosein comes into the squad to replace Mujeeb Ur Rahman.
“We’re delighted to welcome Akeal back to the Renegades. Akeal made a real impact with our team last year. Firstly, his bowling was elite. He bowled economically including in the powerplays and was a wicket taker for us too,” General Manager James Rosengarten said.
“Akeal adds more than just his bowling. He contributed some very handy runs at the back-end of our innings with the ability to clear the boundary. He is also an excellent fielder and team person.”
“Akeal was a Renegades fan favourite too and we’re very happy we can get him back in front of our members and fans at Marvel Stadium for our huge Derby against the Stars on 13 January.”
The Trinidadian will arrive in Australia ranked the 4th best T20I bowler in the world after enjoying a rapid ascent up the ICC T20I Rankings courtesy of impressive performances at both international and domestic white ball tournaments.
Leading roles for the West Indies against India and England preceded an impressive Abu Dhabi T10 campaign where he lead the New York Strikers into the league final with a scintillating five-wicket haul (including a hattrick).
Hosein will be available for the RMIT Melbourne Derby at Marvel Stadium on 13 January.
