Lahore Qalandars have received a timely boost ahead of the resumption of PSL X, with Bangladesh’s veteran all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan joining the squad for the remainder of the tournament.
The move comes as a direct response to the unavailability of Sikandar Raza, who has returned to Zimbabwe for national duty ahead of their home Test series.
Shakib’s addition brings both international pedigree and tactical depth to a Qalandars outfit that has struggled to find consistency throughout the tournament. With the team battling to secure a playoff spot before the league was suspended in May, Shakib’s arrival brings much-needed calm to the middle order and an able bowling option.
The departure of Raza, one of Qalandars’ more consistent performers, left a significant void—especially given his dual value as a middle-order stabilizer and crafty off-spinner. In Shakib, the franchise acquires a like-for-like replacement in terms of role, albeit one with far greater experience. A seasoned campaigner with over 400 appearances in T20s, Shakib has featured in global T20 leagues including the IPL, CPL, BPL, and Big Bash. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball, along with his game awareness, makes him a potentially influential figure in the closing stages of PSL X.
Shakib already has familiarity with the PSL, having represented Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi in three previous campaigns.
While Lahore Qalandars may be in a battle for a playoff spot, the arrival of a marquee name like Shakib signals that the two-time champions are not throwing in the towel just yet. His presence could also serve to galvanize the squad and offer a fitting late surge to what has been a difficult campaign.
With PSL X resuming on May 17 in Rawalpindi and culminating in the final on May 25 in Lahore, all eyes will be on how Lahore Qalandars, now bolstered by the Bangladeshi star, respond to a high-pressure, must-win scenario.
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