Fakhar to play for Desert Vipers

FAISALABAD: Pakistan’s explosive opener Fakhar Zaman has signed with the Desert Vipers for the third edition of the UAE’s International League T20 (ILT20), scheduled to run from January 11 to February 9, 2025.

Fakhar will be joined by his compatriots Azam Khan and Mohammad Amir, who have been retained by the Vipers for the upcoming season. However, Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, Shaheen Afridi, who played for the Desert Vipers last year, will miss this edition due to international commitments. The Vipers had shown interest in re-signing Shaheen, but he opted out, citing a packed schedule. Sources said Shaheen plans to take a break after Pakistan’s Test series against South Africa to recuperate ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy.