Pakistan pace sensation Naseem Shah is in line for a return to the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) after he was signed by the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots for the 2025 season.
The 22-year-old fast bowler has been named as a replacement for South Africa’s Corbin Bosch, with the tournament set to kick off on August 14.
Naseem Shah’s potential return to the Patriots will mark his first appearance in the competition since 2021, when he last played for the same team. Back then, the right-arm quick featured in seven matches, collecting six wickets at an economy rate of 7.68. His composed 2 for 26 in the final played a key role in securing the Patriots’ maiden CPL title.
While the franchise is eager to welcome Naseem Shah back, his actual participation remains up in the air. Pakistan’s international schedule is set to collide with the CPL window, with a busy stretch that includes a white-ball tour of the West Indies, a tri-nation series featuring Afghanistan and UAE, and the high-profile Asia Cup in September. While he is currently sidelined from national duty, a final call on his availability is expected to hinge on national team commitments.
Naseem Shah’s CPL signing adds to a growing Pakistani presence in this year’s tournament. He is the fifth representative from the country in this year’s competition, joining Mohammad Amir, Usman Tariq, Mohammad Nawaz, and Imad Wasim.
| Team | Pakistani Players |
|---|---|
| St Kitts and Nevis Patriots | Naseem Shah*, Mohammad Nawaz* |
| Trinbago Knight Riders | Mohammad Amir, Usman Tariq |
| Antigua and Barbuda Falcons | Imad Wasim |
Mohammad Nawaz is also currently with the Pakistan national team, and his participation in the CPL remains uncertain too. Both Naseem Shah and Nawaz have been signed by St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, and the Patriots may need to alter their plans if both remain unavailable due to national assignments.
Regardless, Pakistan’s top talent is set to make its mark across franchises, and the CPL 2025 could once again serve as a platform for these players to showcase their T20 prowess—provided the international calendar allows.
