Pakistan pacer signs with Worcestershire as Jacob Duffy’s replacement

Worcestershire have confirmed the signing of Pakistan fast bowler Khurram Shahzad, who will join the county side in early July as a replacement for New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy.

Duffy is set to leave the club, and Shahzad will officially link up with Worcestershire on July 4. The 25-year-old pacer is expected to be available for the team’s remaining five County Championship matches, their One-Day Cup campaign, and at least the final six group-stage matches of the T20 Blast.

Shahzad, who has featured in six Test matches for Pakistan and picked up 20 wickets, expressed excitement about his upcoming stint in England.

“Joining a club like Worcestershire and getting the chance to enhance my skills is something I’m really excited about,” he said. 

“I’ve always wanted to play in England, so this was an opportunity I was eager to take. I can’t wait to get started and contribute across all formats,” he added. 

Worcestershire head coach Alan Richardson described Shahzad as a “fantastic” addition to the squad and praised his skill set and experience.

“Not only does he offer us a great option with his ability to swing the ball and consistently bowl over 80mph,” Richardson said. 

“His experience will also be valuable in the dressing room, especially for our younger bowlers,” he added. 

Shahzad has built a strong reputation in Pakistan’s domestic circuit, having taken 201 wickets in first-class cricket at an average of 26.25. He also has 111 wickets across List A and T20 matches.

He is expected to make his Worcestershire debut on July 4 in a T20 Blast fixture against Yorkshire at Headingley.