Image Credit- PCB
In one of the most dramatic PSL transactions, Naseem
Shah is expected to go from Quetta Gladiators to Islamabad United, putting an
end to weeks of rumours regarding where he would play next season.
United prevailed in the race to recruit one of
Pakistan cricket’s most sought-after fast bowlers, after at least three teams
fought for his signature. Before the transfer window closes, Abrar Ahmed and
Muhammad Wasim Jr. are anticipated to make the opposite move and join Quetta
Gladiators. Even though the transfer has not yet received formal approval from
both parties, it is now most likely only a formality.
Multan Sultans seemed to have beaten United to
Naseem’s signing just a few days ago, and they were about to release an
official statement declaring the decision. But United’s interest in Naseem
outlasted Sultans’, having come first.
It’s known that after a number of disappointing years
with the team, Naseem advocated for his own departure from the Gladiators,
which contributed to his decision to leave. The Gladiators had a remarkable
turnaround after being the most consistent team in the PSL during the first
four years of the league’s existence, making three finals and taking home the
championship in 2019. They are the only team that has finished fifth twice and
propped up the standings the other two seasons, missing out on the playoffs in
each of the previous four years. This means that Naseem, who debuted in 2020
and has only ever played for the Gladiators, has never advanced to the PSL
playoffs.
Although Naseem is now acknowledged as a generational
talent in Pakistan across all formats, the PSL has not yet seen a true
demonstration of that potential. His economy rate, strike rate, and average are
all lower in the PSL than they were during his T20 career overall. His 29 games
have yielded 26 wickets, nine of which came in two separate games in 2022.
The official confirmation of Naseem’s full recovery
for the PSL’s commencement is still pending. The injury to his shoulder
prevented him from participating in the entire World Cup and the last stages of
the Asia Cup. In the process of making his way back, he is now in the United
Kingdom and will miss Pakistan’s tour of Australia and New Zealand. Although it
hasn’t been formally verified, he is thought to be on schedule to make sure he
is available for the PSL.