Worcestershire Signs Khurram Shahzad as Jacob Duffy Departs

Worcestershire has successfully acquired the services of Pakistani fast bowler Khurram Shahzad. He is scheduled to join the county team in early July and will remain with them until the conclusion of the season.

The 25-year-old bowler, who has taken 20 wickets in six Test matches for Pakistan, will officially join the Pears on July 4, taking the place of New Zealand’s Jacob Duffy, who is leaving.

Shahzad is expected to participate in Worcestershire’s last five County Championship matches, their One-Day Cup campaign, and a minimum of the final six group games in the T20 Blast.

After signing with Worcestershire, the 25-year-old voiced his excitement, emphasizing his strong desire to improve his abilities and fully capitalize on the chance to compete in England.

Shahzad stated, “The prospect of joining an organization like Worcestershire and having the chance to develop my skills fills me with great enthusiasm.”

He further added, “I have always aspired to play in England, and this chance was one I was eager to accept. I’m looking forward to getting started and making a contribution in all formats.”

Head coach Alan Richardson praised Shahzad as a “fantastic” signing, conveying his satisfaction at bringing in a player of such high quality.

Richardson noted, “He not only gives us a wonderful option with his ability to swing the ball and regularly bowl above 80 mph, but his knowledge will also be extremely helpful in the locker room, particularly for our younger bowlers.”

Shahzad has a noteworthy track record in domestic cricket, having amassed 201 wickets in first-class games with a 26 average, along with 111 wickets in 87 List A and T20 matches.

He is slated to make his debut for Worcestershire in the T20 Blast against Yorkshire at Headingley on July 4.