Perth Scorchers will be without two of their overseas stars in their Big Bash League match against Adelaide Strikers after both players picked up injuries.

New Zealand batter Finn Allen has been ruled out after injuring his finger during the New Year’s Day match against Hobart Hurricanes. English all-rounder Laurie Evans also misses the game due to a minor hamstring issue.

Local wicketkeeper Joel Curtis has been named to make his Big Bash debut and will take over the gloves from Allen. Sam Fanning has also been added to the playing XI and is expected to open the batting alongside Mitch Marsh.

Adelaide Strikers won the toss at Optus Stadium and chose to bowl first, continuing their recent preference to field. The decision suits the Scorchers, who have batted first in most of their matches this season.

Perth have made no changes to their bowling attack, with Ashton Agar remaining the only specialist spinner in the side.

Adelaide, however, have adjusted their combination by adding extra spin. Pakistan fast bowler Hasan Ali has been left out, making way for South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi, who will play his first Big Bash match.

Shamsi’s inclusion comes after Perth struggled against spin in their previous home game, and the Big Bash now becomes the 10th T20 league the experienced spinner has featured in.
The Strikers have enjoyed success with spin at Optus Stadium in the past, including a memorable finals win last season using a spin-heavy bowling attack.