KARACHI: Multan Sultans have moved to strengthen their bowling line-up by signing two promising Pakistani pacers, Muhammad Ismail and Arshad Iqbal, ahead of the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) scheduled to be held from March 26 to May 3.
The franchise confirmed the acquisition of the pace duo through their official social media channels on Thursday.
Team owner Gohar Shah expressed his excitement at integrating local talent from South Punjab into the team, underlining the franchise’s commitment to player development.
“Ismail is one of the best pacers in Pakistan right now. Under Saud Khan’s guidance, he will grow and do big things. We are very happy to have another south Punjabi player in our ranks who knows what it means to play for us,” Shah said.
He also praised second entrant Arshad Iqbal for his resilience and strength.
“Arshad’s profile is exactly the kind of person we need. The determination he has shown to bounce back from a stress break and then go out and impress in the domestic season… that’s exactly the mentality we want to work with,” he added.
Following his signing, Arshad Iqbal shared his excitement about returning to the PSL. Having previously featured for Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi, Iqbal is keen to make his mark.
“I am very happy to be back in the PSL. I had a good domestic season and I want to build on that and show everyone what I can do on the big stage. I am grateful for this opportunity,” Iqbal said.
Young fast bowler Ismail also voiced his commitment to the franchise.
“I will not let Multan Sultans down. I can’t wait to show what I can do. I am very grateful to Multan Sultans for the faith they have shown in me,” said Ismail.
Ismail, who hails from Sahiwal, has an impressive record of 99 wickets at an economy rate of 3.93 in 26 matches in first-class cricket.
In his brief T20 career so far, he has taken 11 wickets in five games with an economy of 8.29. He will make his debut in PSL in the upcoming match.
Arshad Iqbal brings PSL experience to the side, taking 25 wickets at an economy rate of 9.22 in 24 matches in the league.
The historic 11th season of the Pakistan Super League will feature an expanded roster of eight teams, including two new franchises, Hyderabad Kingsmen and Bindis.
44 matches will be played from March 26 to May 3.
Defending champions Lahore Qalandars will open their campaign against Houston Kingsmen Hyderabad on March 26 at their home ground.
Each team will play ten matches in the group stage, with the top four advancing to the playoffs.
The playoff structure includes Qualifier 1, Eliminator and Qualifier 2, culminating in the final at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on May 3, with a reserve day scheduled for May 4.
This year’s edition will also feature six double-header match days, three of which will be held at Gaddafi Stadium.
For the first time in the history of PSL, the matches will be held at six stadiums in Pakistan along with Faisalabad and Peshawar along with Karachi, Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi.
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