India pacer Khaleel Ahmed set to make county debut, signs deal with Essex

India seamer Khaleel Ahmed is all set to make his debut in County Cricket as he’s signed a deal with Essex. The left-arm seamer will be seen playing the remainder of the English County Championship and the entirety of the One-Day Cup.

Ahmed recently had a good season with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL 2025) as he scalped 15 wickets in the tournament. The 27-year-old expressed excitement on his signing and is eyeing to make an immediate impact for the team.

“I am thrilled to sign for Essex. I have heard a lot about the rich history of the Club, and I’m excited to be part of it and will look to make an immediate impact. I’m looking forward to playing at Chelmsford, meeting the loyal Essex Members and fans, and delivering performances they can be proud of,” Ahmed told Essexcricket.

Essex’s Director of Cricket, Chris Silverwood, was also delighted with Ahmed’s signing after his stellar performance against India A against the England Lions.

“We are really pleased to be bringing Khaleel into the Club. We were impressed with his performances for India A and firmly believe he can strengthen our already very strong seam attack. As a left-arm seamer, he offers something different and will add a new dynamic to the squad in both the One Day Cup and the County Championship,” Silverwood said.

Ahmed scalped four wickets in the first innings of the second unofficial Test between India A and England Lions as he helped his team take a slender first innings lead. He will be expected to continue his good form for Essex, who are currently in eighth place in Division One of the County Championship with one win in eight games.

Meanwhile, apart from Ahmed, Ishan Kishan (Nottinghamshire), Tilak Varma (Hampshire), Ruturaj Gaikwad (Yorkshire) and Yuzvendra Chahal (Northamptonshire) are the other Indian cricketers who are currently playing in the County circuit.