Khaleel Ahmed Joins Essex for County Championship and One-Day Cup

Indian left-arm pacer Khaleel Ahmed has signed with Essex for the remainder of the County Championship and the One-Day Cup. After a successful IPL season, he aims to enhance Essex's bowling lineup. His tenure includes six first-class matches and ten List A games, contingent on performance. Khaleel expresses excitement about joining the club and contributing to its rich history. Essex's Director of Cricket, Chris Silverwood, believes Khaleel will add a unique dynamic to the team as they seek to improve their Division One standing. This move places Khaleel among several Indian players participating in County cricket this season.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 29, 2025, 20:47 IST

Khaleel Ahmed Signs with Essex

Indian left-arm fast bowler Khaleel Ahmed has signed with Essex to participate in the remainder of the County Championship and the entire One-Day Cup. The 27-year-old is set to make his debut in the English county circuit. After an impressive IPL 2025 season with the Chennai Super Kings, where he took 15 wickets, Khaleel aims to enhance Essex's bowling lineup in both formats of the game.

His stint with Essex is scheduled to continue until late September, during which he will compete in six first-class matches and potentially ten List A games, depending on the team's performance in the One-Day Cup. Khaleel is expected to be available for Essex's upcoming County Championship clash against Yorkshire, which kicks off on Sunday in York.

Khaleel's Excitement for Joining Essex

“I am excited to join Essex. I have heard a lot about the club's rich history, and I’m eager to contribute and make an immediate impact. I look forward to playing at Chelmsford, engaging with the dedicated Essex members and fans, and delivering performances they can take pride in,”

Essex's Director of Cricket, Chris Silverwood, welcomed Khaleel and highlighted his impressive performances for India A, including a notable four-wicket haul against the England Lions, which played a significant role in the decision to recruit him. Khaleel has participated in 11 ODIs for India, claiming 15 wickets at an average of 31.00. In first-class cricket, he has taken 56 wickets across 20 matches at an average of 27.67.

“We are thrilled to have Khaleel join our club. His performances for India A were impressive, and we believe he will enhance our already strong seam attack. As a left-arm seamer, he brings a unique element to the squad for both the One Day Cup and the County Championship,” Silverwood stated.

Essex is keen to improve their performance in Division One, having secured only one victory in eight matches, and they are looking to Khaleel to provide the boost they need. He joins a growing list of Indian players participating in County cricket this year, including Ishan Kishan with Nottinghamshire, Tilak Varma at Hampshire, Ruturaj Gaikwad for Yorkshire, and Yuzvendra Chahal with Northamptonshire on short-term contracts.