We will do everything in our power to retain Rashid Khan: Jason Gillespie

Afghanistan spin wizard Rashid Khan is a hot property in franchise cricket across the globe. The leg-spinner is arguably one of the most sought-after players in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Pakistan Super League (PSL), Caribbean Premier League (CPL), The Hundred, and the Big Bash League (BBL).

BBL club Adelaide Strikers have been associated with Rashid since 2017, when the under-19 star first made his mark. However, with the upcoming BBL inaugural draft, the Strikers could see their cherished player leave the club.

Coach Jason Gillespie has revealed that the club is ready to delve into their pockets to keep Rashid with them, should the all-rounder throw his name in the ring.

According to the drafting rules, Strikers can utilise their retention power according to the draft selection protocols.

Speaking to cricket.com.au, the former Australian bowler said, "I'd be pretty shocked if Rashid Khan wasn't playing for the Adelaide Strikers.

"I can't imagine Rash wanting to play anywhere else. I certainly don't want him to play anywhere else, and I'm pretty sure everyone here (in Adelaide) is of the same opinion.

"We'll just have to wait and see what the draft throws up, but I feel very confident that Rashid Khan will play for the Adelaide Strikers," added the World Cup winner.

Rashid did not feature in the Strikers' title-winning final against the Hobart Hurricanes in 2018 and also missed quite a few games last season due to national commitments.

"We've always had the challenges of international games, so to use Rash (Rashid) as an example, he's missed various games for Afghanistan commitments which everyone is completely understanding of. International cricket is the priority. And with these other potential leagues – there's talk of a league in the UAE, there's talk of a league in South Africa – we'll just have to wait and see. At the moment, we're unsure.

"We're just focused on talking about the potential for a draft and what it looks like and someone like Rashid Khan, if he's available and it's our pick, there's every chance he will be picked up," the 47-year-old concluded.

Rashid had an incredible run in 2021, winning the PSL with Lahore Qalandars and IPL with Gujarat Titans. He is currently playing in the T20 Blast in England for Sussex.