Salman Agha praises 'team effort' in win over BD

Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha credited team effort for their comprehensive 37-run victory over Bangladesh in the first T20I of the three-match series here at the Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday.

Reflecting on the victory, Agha lauded the batting unit's collective effort to breach the 200-run barrier despite the dismal start before emphasising that a complete all-round performance is what he craves from his team.

"After being 5/2, it was great to see everyone contribute to reach 200-plus," said Agha.

"That's exactly the team effort we want - performing well in all three departments. We encourage players to back themselves and take the initiative," he added.

Agha specifically praised Ali for his five-wicket haul, revealing that people are saying that he was bowling like he used to in 2017, the year Pakistan won the ICC Men's Champions Trophy.

"Hasan Ali has been phenomenal — people are saying he's bowling like it's 2017 again. His hard work is paying off, first in the PSL and now tonight," Agha stated.

While responding to a question regarding plenty of all-rounders in the team, Agha, an all-rounder himself, termed it a real luxury, asserting that it provides him with a handful of quality options.

"Our all-rounders are a real luxury. Even Saim Ayub can bowl his full four overs. With so many quality all-round options, we're in a great position. We'll rest tomorrow and regroup for the second game."

Mohammad Amir roped in by Essex for T20 Blast

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has been drafted to the Essex County Cricket Club for the Vitality Blast, scheduled to commence on Thursday.

The announcement was made by the club on its social media handles as it shared the pacer's pictures donning its jersey.

Amir, in a video statement, shared his excitement upon the signing and urged the fans for their support.

"Great to be back here and I am really happy and looking forward to seeing you all. I need your support. Please come and support us. See you all soon," the pacer stated.

The Essex will kick off their T20 Blast 2025 campaign against Hampshire in a night fixture, scheduled to be played at The Rose Bowl in Southampton on Friday.

Mohammad Amir recently participated in this year's Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10 and finished as the joint-fifth leading wicket-taker with 13 scalps in nine matches.