LAHORE: Lahore Qalandars have announced the signing of former Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan and Sri Lankan power-hitter Bhanuka Rajapaksa for the remainder of the HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 season. In a parallel move, Karachi Kings have bolstered their squad with the addition of Scotland opener George Munsey, as confirmed on Thursday.
The 10th edition of the PSL is set to resume on Saturday, with Karachi Kings facing Peshawar Zalmi at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, following a temporary suspension due to escalating cross-border tensions between Pakistan and India that began on May 7 and concluded with a ceasefire three days later.
During the interruption, several franchises released their players, including international stars, as the political unrest forced overseas cricketers to exit the country. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) later issued a revised schedule, but not all original foreign players were available to return, leading teams to quickly seek replacements.
Shakib Al Hasan replaces New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell, who was ruled out due to a hand injury. “It’s a tournament I’ve always enjoyed watching, and now I’m looking forward to contributing on the field,” said Shakib in a statement released by the Qalandars.
Rajapaksa comes in for England pacer Tom Curran, who suffered an ankle injury before flying back home on May 7. “Bhanuka is a proven match-winner with the kind of fearless intent we value at Lahore Qalandars,” said Sameen Rana, Director of Cricket Operations. He also praised Curran’s impact: “Tom has been a key part of our setup. His energy, commitment, and all-round skills were invaluable. It’s unfortunate to lose him, but his long-term fitness remains our top priority.”
Additionally, Zimbabwean all-rounder Sikandar Raza has rejoined the Qalandars squad, arriving on Wednesday night, the team confirmed.
The PSL action continues on May 18, with a double-header in Rawalpindi: Multan Sultans vs Quetta Gladiators in the afternoon, followed by Peshawar Zalmi vs Lahore Qalandars in the evening clash. The final group-stage fixture between Islamabad United and Karachi Kings is scheduled for May 19.
The knockout stages will be held in Lahore, starting with the Qualifier on May 21, followed by Eliminator 1 and Qualifier 2 on May 22 and 23, respectively.
