KARACHI: Right-handed explosive batter Azam Khan became the first Pakistan cricketer to be signed by the newly-introduced cash-rich league of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The hard-hitting batter will represent the Glazer Family promoted Desert Vipers as the franchise acquired the services of Azam for the inaugural edition of International League T20.

Following his signing with the ILT20 franchise, Azam became the first Pakistan cricketer to be recruited by the UAE league, which sparked a controversy regarding posing a threat to international cricket.

Taking to Twitter, Desert Vipers also confirmed the signing of Pakistan hard-hitting batter Azam and termed it an exciting addition to the side.

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

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

 

Earlier, Azam has also been granted a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for participating in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). The right-handed batter will represent Barbados Royals in the league, set to commence on September 1.

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

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