As the highly anticipated 21st edition of the Vitality Blast kicks off today at Birmingham’s Edgbaston stadium, cricket fans are in for a treat as eight talented Pakistani players are set to showcase their skills in this prestigious T20 tournament.
With the tournament spanning over nine weeks, cricket enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing the thrilling performances of some of Pakistan’s finest cricketers.
Shaheen Shah Afridi: Nottinghamshire Outlaws
Shaheen Shah Afridi, the left-arm fast bowler, has signed with Nottinghamshire Outlaws for this year’s Vitality Blast. Having briefly represented Hampshire Hawks in the 2020 edition, Shaheen made headlines by taking four wickets on four deliveries in a match against Middlesex.
Shan Masood: Yorkshire Vikings
Yorkshire Vikings will be led by Shan Masood, the stylish left-handed opening batsman. After a successful stint with the Derbyshire Falcons in last year’s Vitality Blast, where he emerged as the tournament’s highest run-scorer with 547 runs, Masood is set to continue his impactful performances in this edition.
Hasan Ali: Birmingham Bears
Experienced Test cricketer Hasan Ali, who recently signed a contract with Warwickshire CCC, will be a key player for the Birmingham Bears. As a right-arm pacer, Hasan is expected to spearhead the pace attack alongside the formidable Chris Woakes.
Shadab Khan: Sussex Sharks
All-rounder Shadab Khan, known for his excellent leg-spin bowling and dynamic batting, will represent the Sussex Sharks in the Vitality Blast. Shadab, who also captains Islamabad United in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), showcased his skills in the previous season while playing for Yorkshire.
Haider Ali: Derbyshire Falcons
Explosive batsman Haider Ali has been signed by Derbyshire for this county season and will also don the colors of Derbyshire Falcons in the T20 Blast tournament. Haider, with his fearless approach, has impressed in his international T20 career, having played for Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings in the PSL.
Zafar Gohar: Gloucestershire CCC
Left-arm spinner Zafar Gohar will continue to mesmerize cricket fans with his crafty spin bowling for Gloucestershire CCC. After cementing his place in the team with consistent performances in the last three seasons, Gohar will be a vital asset for the Gloucester Gorillas in the Blast.
Zaman Khan: Derbyshire Falcons
Zaman Khan, an emerging 21-year-old pacer, will join Haider Ali in representing the Derbyshire Falcons. Zaman, a product of Lahore Qalandars’ player development program, recently made his international debut for Pakistan in the T20I series against Afghanistan, displaying immense potential.
Usama Mir: Worcestershire Rapids
Leg-spinner Usama Mir will bring his spin wizardry to the Worcestershire Rapids in the Vitality Blast. Having previously played six ODIs for Pakistan, Usama has honed his skills while representing teams like Karachi Kings and Multan Sultans in the PSL.
Cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the performances of these talented Pakistani players in the Vitality Blast 2023. With their skills, passion, and determination, these cricketers are set to leave a lasting impression on the tournament and captivate fans with their extraordinary abilities on the field.
