Hogg, Arafat stick with Scorchers
Perth Scorchers have reinforced their playing experience for the coming Big Bash season by re-signing senior duo Brad Hogg and Yasir Arafat.
Hogg and Arafat proved crucial in Perth’s BBL 03 championship charge and Scorchers head coach Justin Langer said the pair’s knowledge would again be invaluable.
“I’ve said from Day 1 that, the way I’m watching the game, is that, in Twenty20 cricket, that experience is so important,” Langer said.
“To be able to handle the pressure, whether you’re batting, bowling, fielding, usually it’s the more experienced heads that do that. “To have Brad Hogg and Yasir adding that experience to our group adds great layers to our squad.”
Hogg delivered a standout performance for the Scorchers last season that went well beyond his renowned wicket celebrations, finishing the season with figures of 9-223 at the remarkable economy of 5.86.
The 43-year-old’s season again led him to national selection and he became Australia’s oldest player in 78 years when he competed the World Twenty20 in March, before recently representing Hawksbills in the Caribbean Premier League.
“The body is feeling great and the mind is just the same as ever; it’s feeling like an 18-year-old’s,” Hogg said. “I’m really looking forward to getting back out in the middle and playing.
“I know my career is coming to an end; it’s going to come to an end quicker than it will extend, we all know that. “I just want to enjoy every moment and I’m just excited.”
Arafat quickly became Perth’s go-to man at the death and earned the reputation as the club’s Ice Man, remaining cool under pressure.
He claimed 12-177 at an economy of 7.37 across his six games with the Scorchers, before injury sidelined him for the last three matches, including the BIG Final. The 32-year-old is currently in the UK playing for county club Sussex and recently claimed 5-36 from seven overs in the side’s one-day win over Somerset.
