Pakistani fast bowler Khurram Shahzad to play for Worcestershire for remainder of county season

Pakistani pacer Khurram Shahzad to play for Worcestshire CCC. — Worcestshire

WORCESTER : Pakistan’s budding fast bowler Khurram Shahzad is set to join Worcestershire County Cricket Club in July for the remainder of the county season. The right-arm pacer will be available to play in all three formats for the Pears till the end of this season.

Hailing from district Mandi Bahuddin of Punjab, 25-year-old Khurram is often compared to South African great Dale Steyn because of similarities in bowling action and his ability to swing the ball - he made his Test debut in 2023 and so far has claimed 20 wickets in six Tests, including career-best figures of 6 for 90 against Bangladesh.

Reportedly, the former captain of Pakistan Azhar Ali played a pivotal role in the signing. Azhar Ali himself played for Worcestershire CCC in the 2022 & 2023 seasons where he briefly was part of the coaching staff too and has been instrumental in helping the club to sign cricketers from Pakistan. Previously, Pakistani leg spinner Usama Mir was also signed by Worcestershire CCC on Azhar’s recommendations.

In a statement released by the club, head Coach Alan Richardson welcomed the signing, praising Shahzad’s skill and international experience.

“Khurram is a fantastic signing for us,” said Richardson. “His ability to swing the ball and bowl consistently above 80mph adds depth to our bowling attack. Just as importantly, his presence will be invaluable for the development of our younger bowlers.”

Khurram Shahzad has recently featured in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) too for Quetta Gladiators, helping them reach the final. In 8 matches for Gladiators in the PSL Khurram grabbed 12 wickets at an impressive average of 19.5 and an economy rate a shade above 8.

His versatility will be vital for Worcestershire as he is set to feature not only in the County Championship but also in the Metro Bank One Day Cup and Vitality T20 Blast.

Speaking about the move, Shahzad expressed his enthusiasm: “Joining a club like Worcestershire is a huge honour. I’ve always wanted to play in England and this is a great opportunity to develop my game and help the team have a strong finish to the season.”

Shahzad will be available for selection starting July 4, when the Rapids take on Yorkshire at Headingley in the Vitality T20 Blast.

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