Islamabad United are reportedly preparing to sign Blessing Muzarabani as a replacement for Shamar Joseph ahead of the upcoming Pakistan Super League season, as part of a strategic squad reshuffle.
Sources close to the franchise reveal that the decision to part ways with Joseph was made mutually after internal discussions about team balance, despite the pacer being signed at his base price during the recent PSL 11 draft with no competing bids.
Management is now focused on strengthening their pace attack, believing Muzarabani’s height, bounce, and international experience can add variety alongside bowlers such as Mohammad Hasnain, Salman Irshad, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Mir Hamza, and Richard Gleeson in the squad.
The 29-year-old Zimbabwean quick is already familiar with the franchise environment, having previously represented United and played a role in their championship-winning campaign, which gives team management confidence about his ability to adapt quickly if the deal receives official approval.
The move still depends on clearance from the league’s technical committee, and neither the player nor franchise officials are expected to issue public statements until the formalities are completed and paperwork is finalized in accordance with tournament regulations.
Muzarabani’s selection push follows an impressive return to form internationally, highlighted by a Player of the Match display for Zimbabwe against Australia during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, while he could join Sikandar Raza as the only Zimbabwean representatives in the competition.
