Hasan Nawaz Rejoins Defending Champions Desert Vipers for ILT20 Season 5

DUBAI: Desert Vipers will begin their ILT20 title defence against MI Emirates on 21 November at Dubai International Stadium, with Hasan Nawaz returning to the squad for the new season. The Pakistan batter was part of the team that won the previous edition and will now replace England’s Aneurin Donald, who is unavailable because of international duty.

The Desert Vipers signing Hasan Nawaz gives the defending champions another option in the middle order and at the finish. The 23-year-old joins a Pakistan contingent featuring Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan and Naseem Shah.

Nawaz Arrives After Successful CPL Campaign

Nawaz heads into the tournament after finishing as the joint-leading run-scorer in the Caribbean Premier League. He made 220 runs for Antigua and Barbuda Falcons, sharing the top spot with Evin Lewis as the franchise won the title.

Earlier in the year, he scored 291 runs in the Pakistan Super League at a strike rate of 134.1. His recent form gives Desert Vipers an additional batting option as they look to retain their championship.

Although the franchise mainly used Nawaz as a finisher last season, he can also bat higher up the order. He has represented Pakistan in T20 internationals at five different positions, from opener to No. 6, and scored 96 off 51 balls at No. 4 against India at the Asian Games in Japan.

His contribution last season extended beyond batting. Nawaz took 12 catches in 13 matches for the Vipers, adding value to their fielding unit.

Donald to Miss ILT20 After England Selection

Donald, who was signed during the recent auction, has been called up for England’s T20I series in Australia, scheduled for November and December. His international commitments have opened a place for Nawaz in the Vipers’ squad.

Desert Vipers chief executive Phil Oliver congratulated Donald on his selection and welcomed Nawaz back to the team. He expressed confidence that the Pakistan batter would settle in quickly, pointing to his role in the previous title-winning campaign and his performances in the PSL and CPL.

ILT20 Season 5 will run from 21 November to 20 December. The opening fixture against MI Emirates will give the Vipers an immediate rematch against the side they beat in last season’s final.

Also read: ILT20 Season 5 Schedule