English county team Worcestershire has officially signed 25-year-old Pakistani fast bowler Khurram Shahzad in place of New Zealand’s Jacob Duffy, who will be departing the club early in July.
The signing adds a promising new element to Worcestershire’s bowling attack as they seek to build their team for the remainder of the season.
Shahzad Set to Link Up with Worcestershire in Early July
Khurram Shahzad will join Worcestershire on July 4, just prior to the club’s Vitality T20 Blast match at Headingley against Yorkshire, where he is set to make his debut.
He will be eligible for:
The last six group-stage fixtures of the T20 Blast,
In the final five County Championship games,
And the team’s entire One-Day Cup season.
From Pakistan to County Cricket: A Rising Star
Shahzad has already established himself at the international level, having played six Test matches for Pakistan, in which he took 20 wickets. A specialist in disciplined line and swing bowling, he has been a success in domestic cricket.
In Pakistan’s first-class circuit, his record is as follows:
201 wickets at an average of 26.25.
Apart from that, he has taken 111 wickets in List A and T20 cricket, which proves his competitiveness across formats.
Shahzad Eager for English Challenge
Speaking with passion, Shahzad stated that he is eager to play county cricket and will get his skills tested in English conditions. His transition is at a time when Pakistani fast bowlers are in demand in domestic leagues because of their raw speed and capability to adjust to formats.
Worcestershire’s administration is confident that Shahzad will infuse them with energy, aggression, and depth in their pace attack — something they’ll require while chasing a strong finish to the season.
Why This Signing Matters
With Jacob Duffy having left mid-season, Worcestershire needed an experienced bowler capable of adjusting promptly. Shahzad, with his respectable Test credentials and domestic form, fits the bill.
The signing also points to the increased trend of overseas players contributing to English county cricket, providing exposure and quality competition.
Last Word
Khurram Shahzad’s signing is a timely impetus for Worcestershire, and the world will be watching his Headingley debut. If he delivers as anticipated, Shahzad has the potential to be a crucial player for the club in all formats.
Keep visiting SportSnip.com for more news on international cricketers playing in county cricket and all the latest from the sports world.
