Pakistan's star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi is all set to make his debut in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) as the reigning champions, Fortune Barishal, have signed him for the upcoming season.
The 11th edition of the BPL kicks off on December 30, with Fortune Barishal taking on the league's newest franchise, Durbar Rajshahi, at the iconic Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka.
"Pakistani left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi will play for Fortune Barishal in the upcoming BPL," the franchise confirmed in an official statement.
The 24-year-old has been brought in as a direct signing and is expected to be available for the first five matches of the tournament.
The Pakistan Cricket Board granted him a no-objection certificate (NOC) to play until January 15.
Fortune Barishal's direct signings also include international stars like Kyle Mayers, Dawid Malan, Mohammad Nabi, Faheem Ashraf, Ali Mohammad, and Jahandad Khan. Additionally, players such as James Fuller, Pathum Nissanka, and Nandre Burger were acquired through the players' draft.
The team's local roster features several seasoned Bangladeshi players, including Tamim Iqbal, Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah Riyad, Tanvir Islam, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Ripon Mondol, Ebadot Hossain, Nayeem Hasan, Rishad Hossain, and Taijul Islam.
The seven-team tournament, featuring franchises such as Dhaka Capitals, Chittagong Kings, Durbar Rajshahi, Fortune Barishal, Khulna Tigers, Rangpur Riders, and Sylhet Strikers, will conclude on February 7, 2025.
- Shaheen Afridi
