• Home
  • Cricket News
  • Good News For Babar Azams Peshawar Zalmi As Ex Mi Star Rejoins Franchise For Psl 10

Good News For Babar Azam's Peshawar Zalmi As Ex-MI Star Rejoins Franchise For PSL 10

Soumyajit Dutta

Luke Wood and Babar Azam [Source: @Team_BabarAzam/X]Luke Wood and Babar Azam [Source: @Team_BabarAzam/X]

England’s left-arm pacer Luke Wood has been reacquired by Peshawar Zalmi for the 10th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). This acquisition marks Wood's second stint with the franchise. 

The 29-year-old, known for his death-bowling prowess and franchise cricket experience, was snapped up during the PSL 2025 draft held in Gwadar, Balochistan, as Zalmi aim to reclaim the title they last won in 2017.

A Familiar Homecoming For Luke Wood

Wood, who previously represented Zalmi in the 2022 and 2023 seasons, brings valuable T20 expertise to the squad. During his earlier tenure, the Sheffield-born bowler claimed 13 wickets in 12 matches at an average of 30.30, including a memorable 3/20 against Karachi Kings in 2023. His ability to bowl crucial overs in high-pressure situations made him a fan favourite in Peshawar.

Peshawar Zalmi utilized their fourth pick in the Platinum round to secure Wood, prioritizing his versatility over untested options. His ability to adapt to Asian pitches, evidenced by a low economy rate in PSL, makes him a tactical asset for Zalmi.

Luke Wood's Impressive T20 Career

Notably, the pacer has featured in 165 T20 matches, delivering 164 innings with the ball. He has claimed 165 wickets while conceding 4,472 runs, maintaining a bowling average of 27.10 and an economy rate of 8.45. 

His best bowling figures in the format stand at 5/50, achieved twice. With a strike rate of 19.2, Wood has also recorded one five-wicket haul in his career, showcasing his ability to deliver breakthroughs in the shortest format.

Zalmi, led by Babar Azam, are assembling a balanced squad. Wood joins fellow overseas recruit Tom Kohler-Cadmore, while local stars Saim Ayub and Sufiyan Muqeem round out the core. Wood’s return will be tested early when Zalmi faces Quetta Gladiators on April 12 at Rawalpindi.