India's Khaleel Ahmed Signs with Essex for County Cricket Stint

Indian pace bowler Khaleel Ahmed is poised to make his county cricket debut after signing with Essex. The left-arm seamer is set to participate in the remaining matches of the English County Championship and the entirety of the One-Day Cup.

Khaleel Ahmed ended up giving away 63 runs in 3 overs vs RCB. (AP Photo)

Ahmed's signing comes on the heels of a successful season with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League 2025 (IPL 2025), where he claimed 15 wickets. The 27-year-old has expressed his enthusiasm about joining Essex and aims to make an immediate impact.

"I am thrilled to sign for Essex," Ahmed stated to Essexcricket. "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."

Chris Silverwood, Essex’s Director of Cricket, echoed this sentiment, expressing his delight at securing Ahmed's signature following his impressive performance against the England Lions while playing for India A.

"We are really pleased to be bringing Khaleel into the Club," Silverwood commented. "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."

Ahmed recently took four wickets in the first innings of the second unofficial Test between India A and England Lions, contributing to his team's narrow first-innings advantage. His strong form will be crucial for Essex, who currently hold the eighth position in Division One of the County Championship, having secured one victory in eight matches.

Besides Ahmed, several other Indian cricketers are currently participating in the County circuit, including Ishan Kishan (Nottinghamshire), Tilak Varma (Hampshire), Ruturaj Gaikwad (Yorkshire), and Yuzvendra Chahal (Northamptonshire).