DHAKA: Melbourne Renegades have signed the world’s No.1-ranked Twenty20 allrounder Shakib Al Hasan from Bangladesh for the second half of the KFC T20 Big Bash League season.

A left-hand batsman and left-arm spinner, Shakib is not stranger to the BBL, having represented Adelaide briefly last season.

The 27-year-old replaced West Indian allrounder Andre Russell who will join up with the West Indies ODI squad in South Africa.

Earlier in 2014, Shakib was banned from playing in overseas domestic tournaments by his national board after they claimed he had an "attitude" problem.

The ban was lifted only weeks ago, and the Renegades have been quick to act to bolster their chances at a finals berth.

Renegades coach Simon Helmot is pleased to have Shakib in the squad for the second half of the season.

“Shakib is great fit for our squad in January and we’re looking forward to having him on board,” Helmot said.

“We were looking for someone who could contribute across the board for us and being able to call on the top-ranked T20 allrounder in the world is a terrific boost.

“He brings plenty of experience and cool head under pressure.”

Shakib’s first chance to be selected to play will be the away match to the Hobart Hurricanes at Blundstone Arena on January 7.

The Renegades squad next travels on Christmas Day to play the Perth Scorchers at The Furnace on Boxing Day.

Source: cricket.com.au

BDST: 1010 HRS, DEC 24, 2014