As the cricketing summer swings into full gear on English soil, the County Championship (CC) is proving to be a breeding ground for talent from around the world. For decades the championship in England has long served as a testing ground for cricketers looking to sharpen their skills in challenging conditions. Over the years, several Indian players have made their mark in county cricket — from legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Kapil Dev to modern-day stars like Cheteshwar Pujara.
Here is the list of 4 Indian players who are a part of the County Championship this year:
1. Ishan Kishan – Nottinghamshire
Ishan Kishan, the explosive left-handed batter known for his dynamic white-ball power-hitting displays—especially in the IPL and limited-overs internationals— is signed by Nottinghamshire in this year’s County Championship. The talented wicketkeeper-batter will be looking to sharpen his red-ball skills, adapt to English conditions, and strengthen his case for a long-format spot in the Indian team.
Kishan made his international Test debut against the West Indies in 2023, where he scored a composed half-century. In three Test innings so far, he has scored 78 runs, with a best of 52. His first-class record also reflects his red-ball potential, in 58 matches, he has amassed over 3,440 runs, including 8 centuries and 17 half-centuries. With both experience and aggression, Kishan’s county stint will be closely watched by selectors and fans alike.
2. Ruturaj Gaikwad – Yorkshire
Next on the list is Ruturaj Gaikwad, one of India’s most elegant openers, who is set to represent Yorkshire County Cricket Club in this year’s County Championship. Known for his solid technique and calmness on the field, Ruturaj has consistently showcased his red-ball prowess in domestic cricket. He even captained the India A side during their tour of Australia ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024–25.
In 38 first-class matches, Ruturaj has amassed 2,632 runs with a solid average of nearly 42, which includes 7 centuries and 14 half-centuries and a highest score of 194. His addition to Yorkshire not only strengthens their top order but also gives him a valuable opportunity to hone his skills in English conditions.
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3. Tilak Varma – Hampshire
Another left-hander and a key figure in India’s T20 lineup, Tilak Varma, is also part of the county circuit this season. The 22-year-old has already shown flashes of brilliance in the shortest format of the game and will now be representing Hampshire Cricket Club in the County Championship. The four-day structure of county cricket will demand more discipline and shot selection. However, given his talent and hunger to grow, this stint could help him emerge as a more complete batter.
Tilak has already made an impressive mark in first-class cricket, scoring over 1,200 runs in just 18 matches at a remarkable average of over 50. Those numbers highlight his potential to thrive in the Test arena, and his time with Hampshire could be a vital stepping stone in becoming a more complete and versatile batter.
4. Yuzvendra Chahal – Northamptonshire
Wrapping up the list is India’s white-ball spin maestro, Yuzvendra Chahal. One of the leading wicket-takers in IPL history, Chahal has built a long-standing legacy in the shorter formats of the game. However, he is now set to take on a fresh challenge in red-ball cricket, turning out for Northamptonshire in this year’s County Championship. Chahal’s classical leg-spin has the potential to thrive in four-day cricket, especially later in the season when pitches start to wear out.
Chahal has featured in 41 first-class matches, claiming 115 wickets at an average of 33.79. His red-ball credentials include five five-wicket hauls, with best innings figures of 6 for 44. This stint in English conditions presents a valuable opportunity for him to further prove his effectiveness in the longer format.
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