Shadab, Azam Khan join Shaheen Afridi at Desert Vipers for ILT20

Shadab Khan and Azam Khan are set to team up with Shaheen Afridi once again, this time representing the Desert Vipers in the second season of the DP World International League T20.

Azam was initially picked up by the ILT20 last year, making him the first Pakistani player to join the league. However, due to the Pakistan Cricket Board's previous decision, their players were not released for participation in the event.

This year, the scenario has changed, with the board granting 'no objection' certificates to their players, effectively allowing Azam to take his place among the Vipers.

Tom Moody, the Director of Cricket for the Vipers, praised Shadab Khan's multifaceted skills as an all-rounder and commended his growing reputation as a respected leader.

He also described Azam Khan as a potent threat in the team's lineup. Moody highlighted Azam's capacity as a genuine power-hitter capable of seizing control of the game from the opposition in a spectacular manner.

“He is a genuine power-hitter that can take the game in a breathtaking way away from the opposition,” Moody said.

Eager to return to the playing grounds in the Emirates, Azam Khan expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming season.

“The UAE fans are crazy about cricket and last season the atmosphere was amazing,” Azam said.

“I am looking forward to this season and hoping to put on some good performances in the tournament.”

The second edition of ILT20 is currently scheduled to take place from January 13 to February 12 in 2024.