Dhaka, Dec 18 (V7N) — Pakistani star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi is set to join Fortune Barishal in the upcoming Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), as confirmed by the franchise on Wednesday.

The announcement, made via the team’s official social media accounts, has sparked excitement among cricket fans. However, uncertainty looms over Afridi's availability from the start of the tournament, which begins on December 30.

During the initial phase of the BPL, Pakistan is scheduled to play a two-match Test series against South Africa. The first Test will commence on December 26, followed by the second Test starting on January 3. If Shaheen is selected for the series, he is expected to join the BPL only after January 7.

This year’s BPL has seen a relatively low participation of Pakistani players so far. Shaheen Shah Afridi's inclusion marks a significant addition for Barishal, as he is among the biggest names in cricket to join the tournament.

Fortune Barishal fans are eagerly awaiting Afridi’s arrival, hoping his exceptional pace bowling will strengthen the team’s campaign in this season of the BPL.

END/RH/AJ