Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is set to continue his county cricket chapter, re-signing with Northamptonshire for the 2026 season. The move will mark his third consecutive stint with the English county side. Chahal will join the team for the second half of the season, featuring in both the County Championship and the domestic One-Day Cup.
During his time with Northamptonshire, Chahal has taken 44 first-class wickets and seven List A scalps. In the current season, he has played three matches, picking up 12 wickets in five innings at an average of 46, with best figures of 6/118.
Northamptonshire Delighted to Welcome Chahal Back
Northamptonshire head coach Darren Lehmann praised Chahal’s impact and experience, calling him a “magnificent asset” to the team.
“Yuzi’s record speaks for itself — he brings immense class, experience, and leadership to the group. I loved working with him this year and am thrilled to go again in 2026,” Lehmann said.
He also highlighted Chahal’s role in mentoring young spinners like Nirvan Ramesh and Stuart van der Merwe, stating that his presence would be invaluable for their development.
A Chance to Rebuild His Career
Once a mainstay in India’s white-ball squads, Chahal has been out of favor across all formats in recent years. With competition from the likes of Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Ravi Bishnoi, his inability to reinvent himself has seen him slip down the pecking order. A strong stint in county cricket could be the boost he needs to make a case for a national comeback.
New Additions to the Northamptonshire Squad
Alongside Chahal, Australian pacer Harry Conway will return as an overseas player for 2026. Conway impressed earlier this year, taking 20 wickets in four Championship matches, and will be available for the first seven games of the season in April and May.
“Harry is an excellent addition — his ability to take wickets on all surfaces and his presence in the dressing room make him invaluable,” Lehmann noted.
The club has also strengthened its batting lineup by signing Louis Kimber from Leicestershire on a two-year deal. “Louis brings significant county experience and explosive batting that will excite fans at Wantage Road,” Lehmann added.
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