Pakistan's national fast bowler, Mohammad Hasnain, is set to make his return to the Australian Big Bash League (BBL) after Sydney Thunder announced his signing for the remainder of the 2024-25 season.
Hasnain will serve as an overseas replacement for Lockie Ferguson and George Garton, who have both departed to join the ILT20, as well as Sherfane Rutherford.
Sydney Thunder's General Manager, Trent Copeland, expressed confidence in Hasnain’s return, emphasising his ability to fill the gap left by Ferguson’s departure.
“When we looked at how to replace someone like Lockie Ferguson, we knew we couldn’t replicate him exactly. Instead, we targeted an X-factor player – someone capable of turning games on their head,” Copeland said.
“Hasnain stood out. His incredible impact for the club in BBL11, with 150 kph deliveries and match-winning spells, made him an obvious choice. At just 24 years old, he brings raw pace, wicket-taking ability, and energy to our squad – a massive boost for the tournament and finals,” he added.
This marks the right-arm pacer's second stint with Sydney Thunder, as he previously represented the team during the 2021-22 BBL season.
However, his first appearance in the BBL since then will be notable, as Hasnain's bowling action was reported during his earlier tenure.
After undergoing a series of assessments and modifications, the 24-year-old’s action has since been cleared and he is now set to return to the league in full stride.
Hasnain's previous BBL campaign saw him take seven wickets in five matches, averaging 15.71 with an impressive economy rate of 6.00.
On the international stage, the young pacer has represented Pakistan in 28 T20I matches, claiming 25 wickets at an average of 35.08 and an economy of 8.51.
- Mohammad Hasnain
