Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah has confirmed that he will join Islamabad United in the upcoming edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Pakistan pacer Naseem Shah's move from Quetta Gladiators to Islamabad United in the upcoming PSL season has culminated in a gripping saga of offers and negotiations, marking one of the most sensational trades in PSL history. Although Multan Sultans were initially considered the top contenders to sign him, Islamabad United emerged victorious in a heated battle that saw several teams vying for the coveted fast bowler.

According to a report, Naseem wanted to leave of his own free will following a string of poor performances from the franchise in recent years. The winners of the 2019 edition have not made it to the playoffs in the last four seasons, finishing in last place twice.

The report further stated that Naseem's move from Quetta to Islamabad was a commercial move that resulted in the duo Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Wasim Jnr. moves in the other direction before the transfer window closes. The deal has yet to be officially recognized by everyone involved in the process, but the consensus is that it has been completed.

Despite the Gladiators' early dominance in the early years of the PSL, winning the title in 2019 and maintaining consistency, their performance has since declined. This change apparently contributed to Shah seeking a change of scenery. While he is considered a standout talent in Pakistan cricket across various formats, his impact in the PSL is yet to match his potential.

Naseem Shah has all but confirmed the deal in an X.com (formerly Twitter) exchange with Islamabad United captain Shadab Khan.

Shadab Khan took to his social media account X (formerly Twitter) and captioned a post as "Intezar (wait)". Naseem Shah responded to his tweet by asking, "Kis ka hai ye tumko Intezar?" (Who are you waiting for)" Shadab Khan then shared a video with the caption, "Tum ho na?" (You?)"

Naseem Shah responded to Shadab's tweet and shared a video of both of them taking a walk together at a recent modeling shoot.

Naseem has played 29 matches in the PSL since his debut in 2020, taking 26 wickets. The numbers are paltry compared to his performances in T20I and ODI cricket, where he has taken a total of 47 wickets in 33 matches.

Islamabad United recently signed Mike Hesson as head coach after leaving Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Islamabad have been stuck in the playoffs for the last three editions and are desperate to win a record third title in 2024.