Azam Khan becomes first Pakistan cricketer to sign for UAE’s ILT20

KARACHI: Explosive right-handed batsman Azam Khan has become the first Pakistani cricketer to be signed by the recently introduced cash-rich league of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The hard-hitting hitter will represent the Glazer family promoted by the Desert Vipers when the franchise acquired Azam’s services for the inaugural edition of the T20 International League.

After signing with the ILT20 franchise, Azam became the first Pakistani cricketer to be drafted by the UAE league, sparking controversy over the threat he poses to international cricket.

On Twitter, Desert Vipers also confirmed the signing of hard-hitting batsman Azam from Pakistan calling him an exciting addition to the team.

“Pakistan [wicketkeeper-batter] Azam Khan is an exciting addition to Desert Vipers!” wrote the ILT20 franchise.

“He is one of the best spin players in the world in T20 cricket, averaging 35 with a 160 strike rate against slower bowlers – Azam is ideal for attacking those mid overs for [Desert Vipers]”, added the caption.

Pakistan🇵🇰 batsman-keeper Azam Khan is an exciting addition to Desert Vipers!

He is one of the world’s best spin players in T20 cricket, averaging 35 with a 160 strike rate against slower bowlers – Azam is ideal for attacking those mid overs for #desert vipers. pic.twitter.com/hZ0Uica2Zv

— Desert Vipers (@TheDesertVipers) August 19, 2022

Previously, Azam has also received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for participating in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). The right-handed batsman will represent the Barbados Royals in the league, which kicks off on September 1.

Azam has played three T20Is for Pakistan and has represented Islamabad United and Quetta Gladiators in PSL, Overseas Warriors in Kashmir Premier League and Galle Gladiators in Lanka Premier League.

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