Payne signs BBL deal for Adelaide Strikers

GLOUCESTERSHIRE fast bowler David Payne has signed for the Adelaide Strikers as a replacement for Afghanistan’s star legspinner Rashid Khan for the upcoming Big Bash season.

In September, Payne, 32, signed a three-year contract extension at Gloucestershire to play white-ball cricket after missing much of last season following ankle surgery.

He played a key role in Perth Scorchers’ title-winning run last winter after replacing fellow paceman Tymal Mills, taking 10 wickets in six games.

His purple patch included a spell of 3-33 in the Qualifier final against the Sydney Sixers, which featured the prized wicket of Steve Smith with a diving return catch and he also took a match-winning 3-20 to be named player of the match against the Strikers at Adelaide Oval.

Payne joins a fast bowling group that includes Wes Agar, Henry Thornton, Brendan Doggett and Jamie Overton, and Strikers coach Jason Gillespie said: “We are thrilled to have David join our squad for the upcoming BBL season.

“He is a proven performer at the highest level and will bring a wealth of experience to our team. His wickettaking ability, skills in the field and positivity around the group will all be invaluable to our outfit.”

Payne has played more than 150 T20 matches and in 2022 made his England debut in an ODI against the Netherlands, his sole cap to date.

Payne said the prospect of playing in front of the Strikers fans at Adelaide Oval was exciting.

“New Year’s Eve in particular is a game with an awesome reputation and I know that is going to be a really special night to be a part of,” he said.

“I have heard nothing but great things about the Strikers and am excited to get amongst the group and hopefully build a successful season.”