Rangpur Riders announce signing of Babar Azam ahead of upcoming season

Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) franchise Rangpur Riders took centre stage and announced that they have signed ace Pakistan batter Babar Azam for the BPL 2024, which is all set to kick off in January 2024. Revered as one of the best batters in world cricket, Babar Azam’s addition to the Riders’ squad could do them a world of good.

It is also reported that Babar had an offer from the UAE’s ILT20 but opted for the BPL instead. Following the decision to sign Babar Azam, Rangpur Riders took quite a unique approach in context with the announcement.

Taking to social media, Rangpur Riders adopted the concept of mystery as they announced Babar’s signing. They provided the fans with three questions and a silhouette of the Pakistan skipper.  

Taking to Facebook, Rangpur Riders wrote, "We are here with another surprise after signing the world's No. 1 all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan in the fight for victory! Dear Rangpur Riders fans, guess who is going to be the new rider by matching the information given in the picture, and share your opinion in the comments."

Babar Azam to be key for Pakistan in upcoming tournaments 

Pakistan has been soaring high in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023. Led by Babar Azam, the side has managed to make it to the Super Four stage of the tournament and even won their first Super Four clash against Bangladesh.

They began their campaign by registering a brilliant win against Nepal in the season opener of the Asia Cup 2023. Babar played a brilliant knock against Nepal, scoring 151 runs in 131 deliveries and helping his side win the game comfortably. 

Furthermore, the skipper did not get to feature with the bat against India after the game was abandoned and washed out in the first innings. Taking on Bangladesh in match 7 of the Asia Cup, Babar Azam only managed to score 17 runs. However, Pakistan did win the game comfortably.

Having their sights set on the title, Pakistan will be keen on going all the way in the Asia Cup and will then shift their focus to the rapidly approaching ODI World Cup 2023.