(Web Desk) – Warwickshire County Cricket Club’s summer plans have been hit hard after star pacer Hasan Ali was unexpectedly called back to Pakistan’s T20 squad, just as he was set to spearhead the Bears’ attack in the Vitality T20 Blast 2025.
The 31-year-old fast bowler, returning for his third stint with Warwickshire, was slated to join the team by late May, bolstering their bowling arsenal right from the tournament’s kickoff. But after a sensational PSL X campaign where Hasan bagged 17 wickets in 10 matches for Karachi Kings, Pakistan’s new cricket management swooped in with a central contract—and a national recall that caught Warwickshire off guard.
Frustration Mounts as Plans Unravel
Warwickshire CEO Stuart Cain did not hide his disappointment, revealing the club had been reassured Hasan would be available for the season.
“This twist is hugely frustrating,” Cain admitted. “We were told Hasan wouldn’t feature in Pakistan’s plans this summer. But a change at PCB headquarters meant he was handed a central contract, which now puts his availability in serious doubt.”
The situation underscores a growing headache for English counties: the challenge of locking down overseas stars amid shifting international priorities and the allure of lucrative global T20 leagues.
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“It’s becoming increasingly tough to sign quality overseas players who can commit to an entire season, let alone multiple seasons,” Cain added.
A Familiar Pattern of Interruptions
Hasan’s Warwickshire journey has been a rollercoaster. In 2023, he impressed with 24 wickets in the County Championship but missed key T20 Blast games due to injury. Last year, national call-ups and an elbow injury again curtailed his availability, allowing him only five Blast matches before being sidelined.
This year, Hasan is expected to join just before June 8, missing the Blast’s opening rounds. He’ll be back for a brief window between July 4 and July 13, but will leave again for Pakistan’s white-ball series against the West Indies in the USA and Caribbean from July 31 to August 12.
Still Counting on Hasan’s Impact
Despite these setbacks, Warwickshire head coach Ian Westwood remains upbeat about Hasan’s potential impact in his limited time with the squad.
“Hasan’s experience and fiery pace can change games. Even with a short run, he brings energy we desperately need,” Westwood said.
The Bigger Picture: Counties Struggle to Secure Overseas Stars
Hasan Ali’s interrupted availability highlights a wider struggle for English county cricket. With international schedules growing more congested and players drawn to global franchise leagues, counties face increasing uncertainty when planning their squads.
As Warwickshire navigates these challenges, they echo a common call across county cricket for clearer communication and greater scheduling stability to make the most of overseas talents.
