Strikers eager for Pollard return

The Adelaide Strikers are relishing the thought of welcoming back a rejuvenated Kieron Pollard for this summer's KFC Big Bash League, as they look to improve on their back-to-back semi-final appearances.

The West Indies allrounder, who signed a three-year deal with the Strikers in October 2014, was ruled out of BBL|05 after injuring his knee playing in South Africa's domestic Twenty20 competition last November.

The explosive batsman's return will be particularly welcome following the departure of middle-order batsman Alex Ross to the Brisbane Heat.

After missing the Windies' World T20 campaign as he continued his recovery, Pollard has returned to form with a bang for the Mumbai Indians in the IPL, striking a 21-ball fifty against Kolkata Knight Riders earlier this month.

However Adelaide's second import for BBL|06 is less clear. England spinner Adil Rashid is contracted for another season and last season's leading wicket-taker would be given a warm reception back at the Adelaide Oval.

But his availability for the Strikers could be severely curtailed by international duty next summer with England touring India over the Christmas period with Rashid highly likely to feature.

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When Pollard was ruled out shortly before the start of last season, the Strikers secured Sri Lanka legend Mahela Jayawardena on a one-year deal as his replacement.

But with Jon Holland the only other slow bowler in the current Strikers squad, another tweaker would be welcomed.

Domestically there are not too many options – evergreen spinner Brad Hogg is out of contract, but is highly unlikely to sign with anyone other than the Perth Scorchers.

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Should the Strikers look overseas, Bangladesh left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan could be an option, while West Indies leg-spinner Samuel Badree is out of contract with the Brisbane Heat after an impressive BBL|05 campaign in teal.

"We're preparing for a big BBL|06 next summer as we look to build on our finals appearances in the past two seasons," Adelaide Strikers General Manager Bronwyn Klei told cricket.com.au.

"Having enjoyed a stellar debut season with the Strikers, Adil Rashid will be contracted again for next summer's competition, while we'll also be welcoming back a rejuvenated Kieron Pollard who is showing some of his best form with the Mumbai Indians in the IPL."

Veteran batsman Brad Hodge, who is currently coaching fledgling IPL franchise Gujarat Lions, is set to continue his BBL career with a second season as Strikers captain.

"Brad Hodge showcased his excellent leadership last year as well and will continue to mentor some of our state's best local talent in his role as captain and assistant coach," Klei added.

Adelaide Strikers off-contract players: Jonathon Dean, Mahela Jayawardena, Alex Keath, Ben Laughlin, Jake Lehmann, Michael Neser, Gary Putland