Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) franchise Durbar Rajshahi have appointed former Pakistan batter Ijaz Ahmed as head coach for the fast-approaching season, beginning December 30.

Ijaz was a key member of Pakistan's 1992 World Cup-winning team, and was part of the squad that finished runners-up in the 1999 edition. Dubbed the 'axe man' for his stance, the right-hander amassed nearly 10,000 runs for his country in 310 international matches (60 Tests, 250 ODIs) between 1987 and 2001.

The 56-year-old previously worked as the head coach of the Pakistan U-19 team and Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League, while also working as an assistant coach of the Pakistan national cricket team.

Meanwhile, Rajshahi also confirmed Zimbabwe all-rounder Ryan Burl as their new foreign direct signing. The 30-year-old, who has played three Tests, 52 ODIs, and 87 T20Is for Zimbabwe so far, has represented Sylhet and Chattogram franchises in previous BPL editions.

"Hello, Bangladesh and all fans of the BPL. This is Ryan Burl here. I am very excited to let you know that I'll be joining Durbar Rajshahi team for this edition's BPL. I can't wait to get over, get involved, and start playing. I'm looking forward to seeing you guys out there," Burl, a regular member of the Zimbabwe T20I side, said in a video message.

Earlier, they roped in Omani pacer Bilal Khal and Pakistani batsman Mohammad Haris as direct signings, while also picking Pakistan's Saad Naseem and Sri Lanka's Lahiru Samarakoon from the players draft event.

In the tournament's curtain raiser, Rajshahi will face reigning champions Fortune Barishal at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur. The franchise is expected to start their practice from Friday.