Vitality Blast: Notts Sign Binura Fernando as Mohammad Ali Replacement

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Nottinghamshire (Notts), currently performing impressively in England's domestic T20 tournament, the 'Vitality Blast', has made a significant change to its squad. Following the selection of star Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Ali for Pakistan's Test squad (for the Caribbean tour), Nottinghamshire has signed Sri Lankan left-arm fast bowler Binura Fernando for the remainder of the season.

Mohammad Ali's impressive run and return to the Pakistan team

Mohammad Ali has bowled magnificently for Nottinghamshire this season, claiming 19 wickets in 10 matches at an excellent average of 16.21. He is the second-highest wicket-taker in the tournament, trailing only Yorkshire's Hasan Ali. He is now set to join the Pakistan Test squad for the tour of the West Indies, necessitating his early departure from the tournament.

Binura Fernando set for his maiden county cricket stint

Upon joining Nottinghamshire, Sri Lankan bowler Binura Fernando expressed his delight, saying:

"I am thrilled to join Nottinghamshire for the Vitality Blast. Representing such a big and prestigious club is a fantastic opportunity for me. I look forward to stepping onto the Trent Bridge pitch, meeting my teammates and the fans, and contributing to the team's success."

This will be Fernando's first county season. He will be available for the final two group matches against Leicestershire and Yorkshire, as well as for the knockout (quarter-final) fixtures.

Statement by Head Coach Peter Moores

Nottinghamshire Head Coach Peter Moores commented on this replacement:

"It is exciting to have Binura join the squad at such a crucial stage of the tournament. He brings international experience, and as a left-arm bowler, he will add a new dimension of variety to our bowling attack."

Bidding farewell to Mohammad Ali, he remarked that while Ali's departure is a loss for the team, they wish him the very best with the Pakistan squad.