Rishad Hossain Returns to Lahore Qalandars for PSL Eliminator

Lahore, Pakistan – Bangladesh spinner Rishad Hossain has rejoined the Lahore Qalandars ahead of their important eliminator match against the Karachi Kings in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), set to be played on Thursday.

Rishad recently returned from Sharjah, where he participated in the final T20I match of the Bangladesh-UAE series. He played in two matches, with UAE winning the series 2-1. Earlier this month, he and other overseas players temporarily left Pakistan when the PSL was suspended due to border tensions.

With Rishad back in the squad, the Qalandars now feature three Bangladeshi spinners, including Shakib Al Hasan, who has played one match this season, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who joined the team a few days prior. Rishad has already made five appearances for the Qalandars this season, taking nine wickets at an average of 16.44.

The Qalandars face tough selection choices, particularly in their bowling lineup. Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf lead the pace attack, but the decision among the three spinners will be closely watched. Rishad is now available for the rest of the PSL, as the Bangladesh Cricket Board has extended his No Objection Certificate until May 25.

Bangladesh’s T20I series against Pakistan begins on May 28 in Lahore. Before that, the PSL final is scheduled for May 25. In other news, pacer Nahid Rana and two coaching staff members withdrew from the upcoming T20I tour, citing security concerns just days before departure.

Rishad confirmed his return in a video shared by the Qalandars, expressing excitement to be back with his teammates. “Assalamu Alaikum, everyone. I have returned to the Lahore Qalandars family. See you on the field. We will win this [title] together,” he said.

The Qalandars qualified for the playoffs in fourth place, earning 11 points from 10 matches. They will compete against the Karachi Kings on May 22 at 9 PM Bangladesh time. A victory would secure their place in the second Qualifier, against the loser of the first Qualifier, which features Islamabad United.

Shakib, who recently returned to competitive cricket after a lengthy break, faced challenges in his last outing, while Miraz steps in as a late replacement for Zimbabwean all-rounder Sikandar Raza, who left for national service. This marks Miraz’s first call-up to a foreign franchise for playoffs.