Hobart Hurricanes have brought back their best bowler from last summer. Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain has signed for BBL|16.
Rishad is on a one-year deal and is available for the first eight games. Last season he played 12 games, took 15 wickets, and finished as the club’s leading wicket-taker. He also picked up the Hurricanes’ BBL player of the year award. That is a big return for a first season in a new league.
The spin twins
Hobart signed Adam Zampa last month. Now they have two of the best white-ball leg-spinners in the world in one squad. Between them, Rishad and Zampa have 560 T20 wickets, with 235 of those in internationals.
Two leg-spinners in one team is a bold call. Most sides carry one and fill the rest with pace. Hobart are betting that middle-overs wickets win more games than an extra fast bowler. Rishad was at his best in the middle overs last summer, while Zampa brings control and years of big-game know-how. The styles are different, and that is the point.
One thing to watch: Rishad leaves after eight games. Zampa then carries the spin load alone for the run home. How Hobart plan for that gap could shape their season.
Who is Rishad Hossain?
A 24-year-old Bangladesh leg-spinner. He joined Hobart for BBL|15 and finished as the club’s leading wicket-taker with 15 wickets.
Why did Hurricanes bring him back?
He was their best bowler last season and won the club’s BBL player of the year award. He also made it clear he wanted to return to Hobart.
When does the Hurricanes’ BBL|16 season start?
The BBL|16 season starts on December 12, 2026. Hobart’s fixture dates are on our BBL 2027 schedule page.
Last verified: 15 October 2026