BBL 2023-24: Perth Scorchers appoint Aaron Hardie as stand-in Captain

Young all-rounder Aaron Hardie has been appointed as the stanin captain of Perth Scorchers for the remainder of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2023-24. The 24-year-old will have wicketkeeper-batter, Josh Inglis as his deputy.

Hardie's appointment came after Scorchers' regular captain Ashton Turner was ruled out of the entire season due to an injury. Turner suffered a meniscus tear in his right knee and experienced pain while bowling in the BBL clash against Hobart Hurricanes on December 20, in Perth. 

"One of our great strengths is we're comfortable using that experience and knowledge to make the team better as a collective. I'm sure the whole squad will remain focused and united to give us the best chance of winning another title," Hardie said.

Aaron Hardie, who made his white-ball debut for Australia this year, is coming off a match-winning knock against the Hurricanes. While chasing a target of 173, the 24-year-old hit an unbeaten 85 off just 45 deliveries. Besides, the all-rounder also seemed keen on accepting the new challenge.

“First and foremost, we’re all wishing AT (Ashton Turner) a speedy recovery. He’s been a fantastic captain and player for a long time, and certainly somebody the squad looks up to. Personally, it’s a privilege to lead this team in his absence, and a challenge I’m keen to embrace," Hardie was quoted as saying by Perth Scorchers.

"We have plenty of experience and leadership within the side. One of our great strengths is we’re comfortable using that experience and knowledge to make the team better as a collective. I’m sure the whole squad will remain focused and united to give us the best chance of winning another title," he further added.

We have long viewed Aaron as leader of promise, he certainly has trust of his teammates: Adam Voges

Meanwhile, Adam Voges, who is Perth Scorchers' head coach, stated that the defending champions will undoubtedly miss the services of regular skipper, Ashton Turner, for the rest of the BBL season. However, he mentioned that this would be a great opportunity for Hardie to showcase his leadership skills.

"Clearly losing AT is disappointing, but his injury presents an opportunity for Aaron to display his leadership skills during the tournament. We have long viewed Aaron as a leader of promise. He has been part of WA and Perth Scorchers leadership programs and certainly has the trust of his teammates, both on-field and off," Voges was quoted as saying by Scorchers.

"He will have plenty of support from those around him – the coaches, vice-captain Josh Inglis, and the rest of a very experienced playing squad. We have full faith the group will rally around Aaron and attack the rest of the season with the same intensity and focus that has brought us success in recent years," he concluded.