Shadab Khan set to play for Hong Kong Island United

The 19-year old Pakistani spinner Shadab Khan has been a revelation. He has been impressive in whatever little that we have seen of him. These performances are a sign of how far the spinner can go and what’s in store for him. The youngster may not have sealed his place in the Pakistan line-up but is surely on the way to cement his name in the squad list.

He recently featured for the Brisbane Heat in the seventh edition of the Big Bash League (BBL). Though he was available just for the first three games, the franchise signed him up and it paid off for them. The leg-spinner picked up six wickets in his three appearances while also maintaining a decent economy. After a successful run there Shadab is set to join the Hong Kong Island United.

Joins as the vice-captain

“Teenage leg-spin sensation Shadab Khan joins Hong Kong Island United as the Vice-Captain of the team,” the management of HK Island United was quoted as saying by geo tv which also owns PSL team Islamabad United.

He is the second Pakistani player to join the HKT20 after Hasan Ali. He also played a handy role in Pakistan’s dramatic Champions Trophy win. He was adjudged Man of the Series in his first international series.

“My journey started in the red jersey of Islamabad United, I am excited to wear Hong Kong Island United’s red now. Islamabad United is like a family to me and it will be an honour for me to represent its sister franchise in the Hong Kong T20 blitz,” Shadab was quoted by geo.tv.

“I take huge pride in being made the vice-captain, I am only 19 and this will be a very valuable experience for me. I hope I can groom my leadership skills here,” he added. Franchise owners are impressed with his progress and its good news for Pakistan cricket.

Spinners have had a good year in 2017. The wrist spinners, in particular, have become the order of the day with all top teams including a spinner in the XI.

The Hong Kong T20 blitz will be played from February 6-11. The finalists of the 2017 season City Kaitak will face off against Hung Hom JD Jaguars in the tournament opener on the first day.