Shakib Al Hasan [Source: Twitter]
Renowned Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been acquired by the Peshawar Zalmi franchise to play in the eighth edition of the illustrious Pakistan Super League (PSL) which commenced yesterday amidst a festive atmosphere in Multan.
The franchise has secured the services of the skilled all-rounder, who has recently captained Fortune Barishal in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), as their reserved supplementary pick.
The left-handed batter is slated to be eligible for selection in Zalmi’s maiden match of the season, facing off against the Karachi Kings on Tuesday, February 14.
It is noteworthy that the southpaw has amassed 375 runs across 11 innings in the BPL 2023. Additionally, the 13 matches he played in saw him snaring 10 wickets, with his all-around performances being applauded by fans worldwide.
The inclusion of Shakib Al Hasan in the squad has served to strengthen the Peshawar Zalmi side, which faltered in their pursuit of the championship title last season.
The team managed to secure six victories from their ten fixtures, thereby concluding the tournament in the third position.
Their campaign came to an abrupt end following a defeat in the first eliminator against Islamabad United.
It is pertinent to mention that Peshawar Zalmi is the only franchise in the league to have made the playoffs every year, thus highlighting their exceptional track record in the competition.
Furthermore, the team has decided to name Babar Azam as their captain, who will be replacing Wahab Riaz in this role. Therefore, much will be resting on Azam's shoulders as he leads the team, with his performance being pivotal to the team's success.
Peshawar Zalmi Updated Squad
Peshawar Zalmi: Babar Azam, Wahab Riaz, Mohammad Haris, Sherfane Rutherford, Aamir Jamal, Salman Irshad, Tom-Kohler Cadmore, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Jimmy Neesham, Rovman Powell, Mujeeb ur Rahman, Shakib Al Hasan, Usman Qadir, Danish Aziz, Arshad Iqbal, Saim Ayub, Suifyan Muqeem, Haseeb Ullah, Haris Sohail
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