All-time leading BBL wicket-taker Ben Laughlin leaves Adelaide Strikers

BBL all-time leading wicket-taker Ben Laughlin has left the Adelaide Strikers in order to be closer to his family in Queensland.

Ben Laughlin of the Strikers bowls during the Big Bash League (BBL) match between the Perth Scorchers and the Adelaide Strikers at Optus Stadium in Perth, Wednesday, December 26, 2018. (AAP Image/Richard Wainwright) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY, IMAGES TO BE USED FOR NEWS REPORTING PURPOSES ONLY, NO COMMERCIAL USE WHATSOEVER, NO USE IN BOOKS WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT FROM AAP

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Adelaide Strikers have released Ben Laughlin with the all-time leading BBL wicket-taker expected to join Brisbane Heat.

New South Wales paceman Harry Conway will replace veteran Laughlin, who was part of the Strikers’ inaugural 2017-18 BBL title win under coach Jason Gillespie.

Noosa-based tradie Laughlin had one season left on his deal, but requested a move to be closer to family after taking 60 wickets in 50 games for the Strikers.

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“Ben has been a great bowler for us for a long time so we were disappointed but understood the decision,” SACA high performance boss Tim Nielsen said.

Ben Laughlin has departed the Adelaide Strikers. Picture: AAP Image/Richard Wainwright.

“He has two young boys now and wants to spend more time closer to the family home in Noosa.”

Former Australian seamer Laughlin has played a competition high 75 matches for 95 wickets.

Conway, a 200cm speedster, made his first-class debut for New South Wales in 2016.

Conway was in the Sydney Sixers squad last season but hasn’t earnt a BBL debut.

“We are excited to sign Harry, we believe he has the potential to develop his T20 skills with us,” Nielsen said.

“There are also more opportunities now for some of our other young bowlers including Wes Agar, Cam Valente and Nick Winter to push for selection.”

The Strikers attack will rely on Peter Siddle and Rashid Khan this summer.

Conway joins Sussex batsman Phil Salt and former Australian all-rounder Cam White at the Strikers this season.