In a significant development for the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), Bangladesh allrounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz is poised to make his debut after being signed by the Guyana Amazon Warriors. He steps in as a replacement for Afghanistan's Mohammad Nabi, who is departing to join his national team for an upcoming T20I series against India.
Alongside Miraz, Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Haris will also join the Warriors, taking over the spot of Afghanistan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz. Both Nabi and Gurbaz are set to leave the CPL to represent Afghanistan in a three-match T20I series against India, which begins on September 13.
Nabi's decision to remain with the Amazon Warriors for the CPL has paid off, as he played a crucial role in the team's performance, helping them secure 10 victories out of 11 matches in both the Global Super League and the CPL. His departure leaves a notable gap, as he has been the leading spinner in the tournament, claiming 12 wickets in six innings with an impressive economy rate below six. His standout performance included four wickets in a recent match against the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots, which guaranteed Guyana's spot in the playoffs.
Imran Tahir, the captain of the Amazon Warriors, expressed his admiration for Nabi's contributions, calling him “an absolute legend” and one of the best offspinners in the game today. Tahir emphasized Nabi's consistent performance and how much the team will miss his skills both with the bat and in the field.
Gurbaz also made a mark during his short stint in the CPL, accumulating 93 runs in just two innings, with scores of 54 against Jamaica Kingsmen and 39 against the Patriots. His performance added depth to the Warriors' batting lineup, and his absence will be felt.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who is not part of Bangladesh's T20I squad for the Asian Games in Japan, will be available for the remainder of the CPL season with Guyana. This marks his first official appearance in the CPL, having previously been signed by Trinbago Knight Riders in 2017 but not playing any matches at that time.
Haris, a familiar face for the Amazon Warriors after representing them during the Global Super League in July and August, is expected to bring additional firepower to the team. The Warriors have other options to fill Gurbaz’s role, including Glenn Phillips, who may return to the lineup, while Shai Hope could take over wicketkeeping duties. Local talent Matthew Nandu also stands ready as a reserve opener.
Despite already securing a playoff position, Tahir emphasized that the team cannot afford to become complacent. He praised his squad’s performance across all departments and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining their top position in the standings.
In other news from the CPL, the St Lucia Kings have signed Guyana batter Kemol Savory as a replacement for Ackeem Auguste, who is sidelined due to medical reasons. Savory, who is yet to make his CPL debut, will join the Kings for the remainder of the season. The Kings have expressed their priority for Auguste's health and well-being and wish him a swift recovery.
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