Hobart Hurricanes all-rounder Nikhil Chaudhary is presently facing trial for an alleged sexual assault incident that occurred after a night out in May 2021. Friends of the woman who was reportedly assaulted have brought the case to the District Court in Townsville.
Prosecutors have alleged that the assault took place in Nikhil’s car, resulting in bleeding and injury to the woman. The woman’s mother has corroborated this account, stating that she went to bed at 11:30 PM on the night in question and missed her daughter’s call at 3:11 AM, shortly after the assault occurred.
However, a few minutes later, the mother contacted and informed that her daughter was in tears and expressed her intention to go to court to report the incident. As of now, Nikhil is maintaining his innocence, with the forensic examiner stating that there is no definitive evidence linking him to the sexual assault.
Furthermore, Constable Alexandra Smith recently came forward, disclosing that she had spoken to the woman shortly after the incident three years ago and confirmed that the woman was not intoxicated at the time.
Nikhil Chaudhary signed a three-year contract extension with the Hobart Hurricanes until 2027
Nikhil Chaudhary secured a three-year deal with the Hobart Hurricanes, extending until 2027. The 27-year-old showcased his skills in the recent 2023-24 Big Bash League (BBL) season, contributing with both bat and ball.
He amassed 154 runs at an average of over 25 and a strike rate of 142.59, while also claiming five wickets at an average of 27.40 and an economy rate of 7.21.
Originally from Delhi, Nikhil relocated from India to Australia in 2020 before earning a chance to compete in the BBL. Hurricanes head coach Jeff Vaughan commended Nikhil’s achievements in his inaugural season and remarked:
“Nikhil was one of our strongest performers during BBL 13, to watch his growth as a cricketer and take his opportunity when it was given to him- was fantastic for our team and supporters. Re-signing Nikky for another 3 years gives us a talented leg-spinning all-rounder, but also someone who can help continue to build out culture and brand of Hurricanes cricket.”
Despite the young player’s impressive performances, the Hurricanes failed to qualify for the playoffs, securing victories in only four out of their ten matches.
Nikhil has previously represented Punjab in the Syed Mushtaq Ali and Vijay Hazare Trophies. He has participated in 21 T20 matches and two List-A games during his short career, accumulating a total of 285 runs and claiming 13 wickets.
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