town, Balochistān province, western Pakistan. The town lies on an open plain just east of the Zhob River. Originally called Apozai (the name is still used locally), it was renamed Fort Sandeman for Sir Robert Sandeman in 1889 and was so called until the 1970s. To the north is a ridge rising 150 feet (45 metres) above the plain; on it stands the Castle, the political agent's residence during the time of British rule. A communications centre, Zhob is connected by road with Quetta, Bannu, and Peshāwar (Peshawar). Pop. (1998) 44,248.