During the 2023–2024 Big Bash League (BBL) season, Nikhil Chaudhary made his BBL debut and significantly improved the Hobart Hurricanes' bat and ball performance. He is now signed with the Tasmanian club for the remaining three tournament seasons.
The cricketer, who was born in Delhi, relocated to Australia in 2020 and had the chance to demonstrate his abilities during the recently concluded BBL season.
The 27-year-old finished the 2023-24 BBL season with 154 runs at an average of 25.66 and a strike rate of 142.59. Chaudhary also provided crucial breakthroughs with his off-spin, finishing with five wickets at an average of 27.40 and an economy rate of 7.21.
Hurricanes head coach Jeff Vaughan praised Chaudhary's overall skillset and mentality towards the game and was quoted as saying by Cricket.com.au:
"Nikhil was one of our stronger performers during BBL|13, to watch his growth as a cricketer and take his opportunity when it was given to him - was fantastic for our team and supporters. Re-signing 'Nikky' for another 3 years gives us a talented leg-spinning allrounder, but also someone who can help continue to build our culture and brand of Hurricanes cricket."
Chaudhary will be joining the likes of Tim David, Patrick Dooley, Nathan Ellis, Peter Hatzoglou, Caleb Jewell, Ben McDermott, Riley Meredith, Mitch Owen, and Matthew Wade, who are under contract with the Hurricanes ahead of BBL 14.
Jasprit Bumrah becomes 1st India pacer to climb to the top of ICC Test bowling rankings