Glenn Maxwell heaps praise on 'scary' quick Haris Rauf

Lahore Qalandars' pacer Haris Rauf impressed on his Big Bash League (BBL) debut for the Melbourne Stars, against Brisbane Heat, afer being signed as an overseas replacement for South Africa’s injured fast-bowler Dale Steyn.

Rauf claimed a wicket on the very first ball of his spell as Max Bryant was caught down the leg-side in the fourth over of the innings.

The 24-year-old also dismissed tailender MItchell Swepson on the penultimate ball of the innings as Stars successfully defended the 168-run target.

Rauf consistently bowled around 145kmh and ended with figures of 2/20 in four overs.

"We've got some strength in our bowling with guys like Haris Rauf. I feel we've really covered all bases this year. Haris scared a few of the boys the other day in the nets, where he tested the speed gun which was nice, and his debut was outstanding," said Stars' captain Glenn Maxwell during the post-match presentation cermeony.

“@HarisRauf14 scared few of the boys the other day in the nets & his debut was outstanding” - Glenn Maxwell#DamaDamMast #MainHoonQalandar

pic.twitter.com/HItefIGwxu

— Lahore Qalandars (@lahoreqalandars) December 20, 2019

Earlier Maxwell, led from the front and knocked an incredible 83 runs off just 39 balls to drive his team to a competitive total of 167/7.

Heat got their innings underway as Tom Banton looked on fire. The Englishman hit six after six with one reaching the third tier of the stadium but eventually went out after smashing a huge 64 runs off just 36 balls.

Leg-spinner Adam Zampa claimed three wickets in his four overs while Daniel Worrall also claimed two wickets, for the winning side.