Azhar Mahmood to play for Kolkatta Knight Riders in IPL

KARACHI: Former Pakistani all-rounder Azhar Mahmood has been chosen to play for defending Indian Premier League (IPL) champions, Kolkatta Knight Riders.

Speaking to Geo News on Monday, Azhar said that he was pleased to be chosen to be part of the team. He said that he was especially thankful to have an opportunity to work with 'his hero', legendary pacer Wasim Akram who is the bowling coach for the team.

Mahmood has played 213 T20 games and has played two seasons in the IPL for Kings XI Punjab, during which he made 382 runs at a strike rate of 129.05.
He has also taken 29 wickets at an economy rate of 7.61 in the 22 matches.

Kolkatta Knight Riders have brought in Mahmood and Johan Botha as replacements for injured players James Neesham and Chris Lynn.

The IPL season is due to begin on April 8 this year.