Continuing the Hobart Hurricanes re-signing blitz, the club can confirm that Indian all-rounder and breakout star Nikhil Chaudhary extended his contract late last week before the BBL re-signing embargo.
After re-signing on a three-year deal at the end of last season, Chaudhary has continued his terrific form for the Hurricanes and has made a middle-order spot in the line-up his own as he extended his contract for another season.
Aligning with the other Hurricanes through to BBL|17, after extensions for skipper Nathan Ellis, Ben McDermott, Riley Meredith, and Mitch Owen, the Hurricanes' key pieces are now under contract for three seasons and all locked away.
Chaudhary is delighted to be around the Hurricanes set up for another season.
“I’m so excited to extend with the Hurricanes, there was no question if I wanted to re-sign with the team that gave me an opportunity, and we are building something very special down here.
“Everyone has gelled so well together this year and we are getting great performances from individuals putting their hand up each game, it’s such a positive environment to be a part of,” stated Chaudhary.
He has been one of the ‘Canes most improved players after being plucked from the Queensland Premier League following strong performances for Northern Districts.
‘Nikky’ was spotted by Hurricanes Assistant Coach James Hopes, who recognised Chaudhary for his clean and 360-degree hitting in the local competition.
Since taking the league by storm last year, Chaudhary has settled into the Hurricanes line-up through their middle order and has been one of the Hurricanes' most consistent performers.
His bowling has also been crucial to their attack, having chipped in with key overs when required and has a knack for taking wickets.
General Manager – High Performance, Salliann Beams, spoke to the importance of Chaudhary on the Hurricanes list.
“Nikhil is a crucial part of what we are trying to build at the Hurricanes as he plays a key role with the bat and the ball, quality Batting/Spinning all-rounders are hard to find, and he has shown in such a short space of time that he is a match winner.
“His maturity is beyond his years as he can adjust his game to suit the needs of the team, and he can absorb pressure or clear the ropes when needed.
“His passion for playing at the Hurricanes is infectious, and I’m pumped to have him locked in until BBL|17,” stated Beams.
The Hurricanes are hosting the BBL Final on Monday 27 January against the winner of the Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder on Friday night and will be looking to win their first-ever piece of BBL Silverware for Tasmania.