Islamabad United has announced that talented fast bowler Naseem Shah has joined their side for the Pakistan Super League 2024 (PSL 9). The 20-year-old pacer, who previously played for Quetta Gladiators, had become a hot topic in the cricketing circles, attracting interest from various PSL franchises.
Speculations were rife about Naseem’s potential destinations, with Multan Sultans and Peshawar Zalmi being among the rumored options. However, Islamabad United emerged victorious in the race to secure the young bowler’s signature. In exchange, Abrar Ahmed and Muhammad Wasim Jr., who were part of Islamabad United, have moved to Quetta Gladiators.
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— PakistanSuperLeague (@thePSLt20) December 2, 2023
Are YOU charged ๐ for the most awaited trade of the season!?!? ๐ฅ๐ฅ
Naseem Shah moves to ๐ Islamabad United
Abrar Ahmed moves to ๐ Quetta Gladiators
Mohammad Wasim Jr moves to ๐ Quetta Gladiators #HBLPSLDraft #HBLPSL9 @iNaseemShah @IsbUnited @TeamQuetta pic.twitter.com/IGZFDCt0WL
With 11 days still remaining until the eagerly anticipated PSL 9 draft, Islamabad United has already made significant moves, securing two top players for the upcoming season. In a previous swap deal, Imad Wasim joined Islamabad United, with Hasan Ali moving to Karachi Kings. Imad Wasim, the left-handed all-rounder, was the Player of the Tournament in PSL 8, showcasing his prowess with both bat and ball.
The team’s roster is shaping up impressively, featuring hard-hitting players like Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Pakistan’s Azam Khan, and Asif Ali, along with versatile all-rounders Shadab Khan and Faheem Ashraf. This lineup positions Islamabad United as a strong contender for the forthcoming season.
In another noteworthy trade, Iftikhar Ahmed joined Multan Sultans in exchange for Rilee Rossouw. This move makes Iftikhar the first player in the league’s history to represent five different teams, having previously played for Peshawar Zalmi, Karachi Kings, and Islamabad United.
As a result of this historic trade, Multan Sultans secured the first platinum pick in the upcoming PSL 9 Draft, scheduled for December 13 in Lahore. On the flip side, Rossouw rejoined Quetta Gladiators, the team with which he clinched the PSL trophy in 2019 and played a crucial role as the second top-scorer in the final against Peshawar Zalmi. The PSL 9 season is already shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle with these major player movements and intriguing swaps.