Big Bash League 2014-15: Perth Scorchers sign Michael Klinger

Michael Klinger

Big Bash League team Perth Scorchers have signed top order batsman Michael Klinger from Adelaide Strikers for the 2014-15 BBL season. Klinger, 34, had switched to Western Australia from South Australia earlier this April after being said he would not feature in the side’s plans: the Scorchers move now, with it being a Western Australia side, seems only logical.

"Hopefully can add the experience and steely resolve that, as an opposition player, was obvious that Simon [Katich] brought to the group," Klinger said. "They are very big shoes to fill because he is a champion player and person, but hopefully I can go some way in replacing the influence Simon had on the group."

Justin Langer, a former Australian opener and currently the coach of the Scorchers, is happy with Klinger’s inclusion in the side and believes that the batsman could bring in more experience and add flexibility to the side.

"I am still pinching myself at the prospect of having Michael play for us this summer," Langer said. "His experience, character and skill will be a welcome addition to both of our squads, and, he will give us the flexibility to bat anywhere in our order. Having spent his career batting in the top three, Michael has the ability to make runs anywhere and against any opposition."

Klinger joins having made 663 runs at 34.89 & with a strike rate of 119.46 in the first three editions of the #BBL for @StrikersBBL #BBL04

— Perth Scorchers (@ScorchersBBL) August 1, 2014