The Pakistan cricket team has been the arch-rival of the Indian team over the last many years. However, in IPL 2008, the cricket fans got to witness Indian and Pakistani players playing for the same team. Sourav Ganguly and Shoaib Akhtar played together for Kolkata Knight Riders, while Rahul Dravid and Misbah-ul-Haq donned the Royal Challengers Bangalore jersey.
As there have been political tensions between the two countries since 2008, BCCI has not allowed the Pakistani players in the IPL. However, five Pakistan-born players have managed to earn an IPL deal after the ban and here is the list showcasing their names.
Imran Tahir
Imran Tahir played a pivotal role in the success achieved by Chennai Super Kings last year. He won the Purple Cap award after his magnificent performances in the league. The South African leg-spinner had also played for Delhi Daredevils and Rising Pune Supergiant before joining CSK.
Owais Shah
England’s right-handed middle-order batsman Owais Shah was a limited-overs specialist. Even though he was born in Pakistan, he played cricket for England. Three IPL teams namely Kochi Tuskers Kerala, Rajasthan Royals, and Kolkata Knight Riders signed him in the league.
Ali Khan
Kolkata Knight Riders signed Ali Khan as the replacement of Harry Gurney for IPL 2020. Ali Khan plays international cricket for team USA and after a splendid outing in the CPL, he is all set to make his IPL debut for Knight Riders this year. Khan was born in Punjab of Pakistan.
Azhar Mahmood
Azhar Mahmood is a former Pakistani all-rounder, who played in IPL 2013 for Kings XI Punjab. The all-rounder became a T20 specialist and played for the Mohali-based franchise under a British passport.
Usman Khawaja
Australia’s left-handed opening batsman Usman Khawaja is known for providing his team with solid starts. However, not many IPL franchises have shown interest in the Pakistan-born batsman. The southpaw played his only IPL season for Rising Pune Supergiant in the IPL.
