Photo Credit: Melbourne Renegades
The Melbourne Renegades have bolstered its bowling attack and added a wealth of experience with former Thunder and Australian paceman Gurinder Sandhu signing on ahead of BBL|14.
Sandhu, an established player at international and domestic level, joins the Renegades following an extraordinary stint with the Sydney Thunder and Sydney Sixers spanning 73 games across 10 years.
Sandhu, who arrives at the ‘Gades on a one-year-deal, said he couldn’t wait to get to Melbourne and get to work ahead of the new season.
“I am really looking forward to it. Watching the Renegades over the last few years, it’s been great to see where their cricket is headed and I’m excited to get this opportunity to be part of it,” he said.
“A change up is always good; you get to learn new things with access to different coaches and teammates with different skillsets and ways of thinking about the game.
“The season can’t come quick enough. I’m really excited to get down there, link up with the boys, work hard, make the most of the opportunity I’ve been given and execute whatever role I’m given.”
Sandhu’s record rivals some of the best in the Big Bash, with 73 wickets to his name at a 19.16 strike rate.
Melbourne Renegades BBL|14 Squad (to date):
Josh Brown, Harry Dixon, Mackenzie Harvey, Nathan Lyon, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Kane Richardson, Gurinder Sandhu, Will Sutherland, Jon Wells, Adam Zampa.
His one-day record also reads extremely well with Sandhu currently sixth on the all-time leaderboard for most wickets (111 from 57 matches) in the Australian 50-over domestic competition.
It’s in the one-day format where Sandhu earned a national call-up, receiving his Aussie cap in the 2014/15 ODI Series against India. After two games, Sandhu’s perseverance and drive saw him return to the national set-up last summer after being selected for Australia A against New Zealand.
His skill and versatility with the white ball, and effectiveness during the death overs, is undisputed. And is one of the many qualities which caught the eye of Melbourne Renegades General Manager James Rosengarten.
“Gurinder’s experience in the Big Bash and his proven track record as a talented bowler at domestic and international level makes him an extremely valuable addition to our squad,” he said.
“Gurinder brings a cool head and a competitive edge that will be an asset for us as we strive for success this season. His presence will not only strengthen our bowling attack but provide added leadership to our playing group.
“Having someone of Gurinder’s calibre in our team is a big boost, and we can’t wait to see him in action wearing the Renegades colours.”
Sandhu’s signing comes as the Renegades continue to build a strong squad for BBL|14, with Josh Brown also committing to the club this off-season.
