Charlie Wakim Returns to Hobart Hurricanes for BBL|14 After Stellar Finals Performance

• Key Takeaway One: Charlie Wakim secures a full Big Bash contract with the Hobart Hurricanes after an impressive stint with the Brisbane Heat last season.
• Key Takeaway Two: Wakim's move comes after a career-best season in domestic cricket for Tasmania, highlighting his growth as a top-order batter.
• Key Takeaway Three: The Hurricanes aim to bolster their lineup with Wakim's experience and leadership, following his notable performances in both the Sheffield Shield and Marsh One-Day Cup.

Charlie Wakim, the dynamic opener who played a pivotal role in the Brisbane Heat's thrilling journey to the finals in the last Big Bash League (BBL) season, is making waves once again. This time, it's his much-anticipated return to the Hobart Hurricanes for the upcoming BBL|14, marking his first full Big Bash contract. The move comes on the heels of Josh Brown's high-profile switch to the Melbourne Renegades, leaving fans eager to see how Wakim will fill the void left by his former teammate.

Wakim, a seasoned cricketer at 32, previously donned the Hurricanes' colors in a pre-season T20 tournament in Abu Dhabi back in 2018, showcasing his skills with commendable knocks of 43 and 15. Despite a brief hiatus from the Hurricanes' roster, his cricket journey continued with stints as a replacement player for both the Hurricanes and the Melbourne Stars, the latter during a season marred by a Covid-19 outbreak within the squad.

The right-handed batter's surprise selection for the Heat in the last season's Challenger match against the Adelaide Strikers was a turning point, despite a modest seven-run contribution. Witnessing teammate Josh Brown's explosive century from the sidelines, Wakim played a part in the Heat's memorable campaign, though he was absent from the championship-winning final match.

The Hobart Hurricanes, keen to leverage Wakim's recent domestic triumphs, including a top-five finish as the Sheffield Shield's highest run-scorer and a striking performance in the Marsh One-Day Cup, were quick to secure his signature. Wakim's enthusiasm for representing Tasmania, coupled with his stellar 56-ball 139 in a T20 for his club side Lindisfarne, underscores his readiness to make a significant impact in BBL|14.

Salliann Beams, Cricket Tasmania's General Manager of High Performance, praised Wakim's consistency and leadership, both on and off the field, signaling the Hurricanes' high expectations for the seasoned player. Wakim's journey from Sydney to Tasmania in 2017, marked by a remarkable 160 on his first-class debut, speaks volumes of his cricketing prowess and resilience.

As the BBL season approaches, fans and players alike are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying return for Charlie Wakim. With priority access for tickets opening soon, the stage is set for Wakim to showcase his talent and for the Hurricanes to capitalize on his experience and leadership in their quest for glory in BBL|14.