Hurricanes sign international spinner

The Hobart Hurricanes have strengthened their squad ahead of the KFC Big Bash finals, with the signing of Afghan teenage spin sensation Qais Ahmad for the remainder of the competition.

Ahmad is tipped to be the next big thing in Afghanistan cricket following the rise of Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman in recent years and the 18-year-old leg-spinner has already started to make a name for himself in international tournaments around the world.

The leg-spinner finished as the joint leading wicket taker at the Under 19 World Cup last year - where Thunder batsman Jason Sangha was one of his 14 scalps - and is currently producing some solid numbers playing for the Rajshahi Kings in the Bangladesh Premier League.

Ahmad took six wickets from six matches for the Kings, with his economy rate of 7.08 more than adequate in comparison to other spinners at the competition.

“We’re delighted to secure the services of Qais for the back end of the BBL,” said Cricket Tasmania's Talent Manager, Jamie Cox.

“He is another in the line of exciting Afghanistan wrist spinners and we’re sure he can help our already talented squad be successful come BBL|08 Finals time."

Ahmad has also created headlines while playing for the St Lucia Stars at the Caribbean Premier League last year when he did a reverse somersault, landed awkwardly before leaping for more joy when celebrating the wicket of Dwayne Smith.

Ahmad replaces Tymal Mills in the Hurricanes' squad, with the English international failing to play a game at BBL|08 because of a hamstring injury.

It is expected that Ahmad will be available for the Hurricanes' top-of-the-ladder clash against the Melbourne Renegades at Blundstone Arena on Thursday night, where the Hobart side will be looking to cement top spot and a home semi-final.