Hassan Ali Returns to Bears : County Championships: Hassan Ali Returns to Warwickshire for His Third Season

Edgbaston, Jan 24 (NationPress) Pakistan’s seasoned pace bowler Hassan Ali will extend his journey with the Warwickshire County Cricket Club, signing a fresh contract that guarantees his participation for the 2025 season across all formats. The 30-year-old is expected to reunite with the Bears from May 29 until the end of September, marking his third consecutive year with the club.

Hassan, who has over 140 international caps for Pakistan, has been an essential player for Warwickshire since his arrival. In his inaugural season, he secured an impressive 33 wickets, comprising 24 in the County Championship and nine in the Vitality Blast, demonstrating his versatility across formats. Last season, he kicked off strongly in the Vitality Blast, achieving 10 wickets in the first five matches, including a Player of the Match performance with 3-20 in the opening game against Durham. Unfortunately, an elbow injury cut his campaign short.

After undergoing surgery and a comprehensive rehabilitation program jointly managed by Warwickshire and Pakistan’s medical teams, Hassan has regained full fitness and is eager to make an impact in 2025.

Reflecting on his comeback, Hassan expressed his fondness for Warwickshire and the supporters at Edgbaston. "I mentioned last year that Edgbaston felt like a second home to me…but it’s evolving into more of a first home now," Hassan stated in the club's announcement. "I enjoy playing for Warwickshire and the Bears fans. I hope they can see through my performances how much I yearn to win for this Club.

"Receiving my White Bear Cap in 2023 was one of the proudest moments of my career, and I aspire to create many more cherished memories with the Bears next season. Last year was unfortunate due to the injury. I felt I was bowling well and taking numerous wickets in the Blast. But I’m back bowling 100 percent in training and dedicated to rejoining Warwickshire next season," he added.

One of the challenges during Hassan’s time with Warwickshire has been his availability, particularly due to unexpected call-ups from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Last season, his selection for Pakistan’s squad for the May tour of Ireland restricted him to just three County Championship appearances.

However, Warwickshire’s First Team Coach Mark Robinson confirmed that the club has received assurances from the PCB regarding Hassan’s availability for the 2025 season. "His call-up last May was unexpected and took Hassan away from our County Championship start. We’ve received reassurances this year from the PCB that Hassan will be able to focus on the Bears, which is excellent news," Robinson shared.

Robinson highlighted Hassan’s significance to the team, not only as a wicket-taker but also as a motivational presence in the dressing room.

"Hassan is a passionate performer who consistently gives his all for the cause. He’s a proven wicket-taker at the highest level and was excelling with us last season before his injury. He brings genuine energy to the environment, both in the dressing room and on the field, inspiring everyone around him with his enthusiasm. I’m excited to welcome him back into the Bears’ fold," Robinson added.

With his rehabilitation complete and focus set on Warwickshire for the upcoming season, Hassan Ali will be available for the start of the Vitality Blast campaign in May and the subsequent County Championship matches.