Shaheen Shah Afridi Joins Desert Vipers, Creates History in ILT20

Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan’s pace sensation, is ready to make history as he joins the Desert Vipers for the upcoming ILT20 season, becoming the first Pakistan player signed by a franchise in this league. The commitment comes in the form of a robust three-year contract.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Shaheen conveyed, “I’m thrilled to be part of the Desert Vipers. Recognizing the strong presence of Pakistan cricket fans in the UAE, I anticipate their wholehearted support for our team in the forthcoming ILT20.”

Scheduled to kick off on January 13, Shaheen will become a part of the Desert Vipers once he returns from his cricketing engagement in Australia after the New Year’s Test in Sydney.

Last year, the Vipers had attempted to sign Azam Khan, which would have marked his entry as the inaugural Pakistan player in the ILT20. However, the PCB eventually withheld granting him a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) for participation in the league.

In a recent development, E-Cricket Updates has learned that the PCB has now changed its stance, allowing players to participate in the ILT20.

Vipers’ Director of Cricket Praises Shaheen’s Impact and Leadership

Speaking about their new signing, Vipers’ Director of Cricket, Tom Moody, expressed his admiration for Shaheen’s global caliber, noting his significant impact on both the Pakistani team and his previous squads. Moody praised Shaheen’s effectiveness as an impact pace bowler, capable of dismantling top-order batsmen, and highlighted his strong leadership skills that will undoubtedly enhance the Desert Vipers’ potential in the future.

Joining a formidable bowling lineup, which already features Wanindu Hasaranga, Matheesha Pathirana, Tom Curran, and Sheldon Cottrell, among other talents, Shaheen Shah Afridi further solidifies the team’s strength.

The Vipers, who secured the runners-up position in the inaugural season, have retained a major chunk of their players, including the captain Colin Munro and the opener Alex Hales, who emerged as the highest run-scorer in the previous edition of the tournament. This continuity reflects the Vipers’ commitment to build upon their prior success and strive for the championship.