England will face Bangladesh in three T20Is and the same number of ODIs from March 1 to 14. However, England’s tour will clash with the PSL which is slated to take place from February 13 to March 19.

Hales, who has been a double PSL winner with Karachi Kings and Islamabad United, will be available for the entire PSL8.

“The first time I came to play PSL in Pakistan was with Islamabad United,” said Hales in a statement released by Islamabad United.

This will be his fifth season with franchises as he reflects on his journey with the two-time PSL champions. “Everyone talks about how we operate like a family and how everyone looks after each other,” he said. “Last season, the franchise stood by me in a tough situation and respected my decision hence I had no qualms about returning for the playoff games.”

Last year, the 34-year-old decided to pull out of the PSL mid-season because of the bio-bubble toll during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“This year as well, I have made myself available because I love this team and the free brand of cricket we play at Islamabad United,” he added.

The right-hander was also excited to represent the Shadab Khan-led unit in their home ground.

“The thing that excites me the most is playing in Rawalpindi this year,” Hales said. “I got an opportunity to play a few matches at the venue, it is one of the best batting pitches. So I am looking forward to it. Want to experience Islamabad’s home crowd as well, I have heard they are absolutely electric.”

It is worth mentioning here that, Hales made his long-awaited England return at the T20 World Cup last year.

During England’s title-winning campaign, the batter scored 212 runs including an unbeaten 86 against India in the semifinal.