Middlesex Cricket is thrilled to announce the signing of Zafar Gohar, a talented all-rounder from Pakistan. Gohar, known for his skills as a left-arm spin bowler, will be joining Middlesex on a contract that extends through the end of the 2026 season. Originally from Lahore, he has represented Pakistan on the international stage in both Test and One Day International (ODI) matches. His experience and skill set are expected to bring new strength to Middlesex’s lineup.
Gohar joins Middlesex after an impressive four-year career with Gloucestershire. During his time there, he made a noticeable impact in English domestic cricket, showcasing his talent and consistently strong performances. Now, under local player status, Gohar will be eligible to represent Middlesex in all three cricket formats: First-Class, List A, and T20, which significantly enhances Middlesex’s depth in the squad. His presence is anticipated to bring versatility and new dynamics to the team.
Across his career, Gohar has established himself as a reliable performer, especially in first-class cricket. He has taken a remarkable 300 wickets in 84 first-class matches with an excellent bowling average of 31.52, with his best bowling performance being an impressive 7 for 79. His contribution with the bat has also been notable; he has accumulated 2,538 runs at an average of 22.46, including a career-best score of 100 not out.
In limited-overs cricket, Gohar’s record is equally impressive. He has played 160 white-ball matches, collecting a total of 199 wickets. His best figures include 5 for 56 in List A matches and an economical 4 for 14 in T20 games. During his time with Gloucestershire, he played 34 first-class matches and took 118 wickets, with his standout bowling figures being 6 for 43. These accomplishments highlight his ability to perform consistently across formats, making him a valuable addition to Middlesex.
Middlesex’s Managing Director of Cricket, Alan Coleman, expressed his excitement about Gohar joining the club. Coleman shared, “We’ve had our eyes on Zafar for a while and are thrilled to bring him on board as a local player for the next two seasons.” Coleman emphasized that Middlesex has been looking to boost their wicket-taking capabilities in all match conditions, and the addition of an international-standard spinner like Gohar will add a crucial edge to the team. Gohar’s presence in white-ball formats is also expected to strengthen the team’s performance, especially in high-pressure situations where experienced players can make a significant difference.
Coleman also pointed out the positive impact Gohar’s experience will have on Middlesex’s younger spin bowlers. “Having someone of Zafar’s caliber and experience in the team is invaluable for our younger spinners. His guidance and mentorship can accelerate their development and add depth to our bowling options.”
Gohar himself expressed great enthusiasm about joining Middlesex, stating, “I’m very excited to start this new journey with Middlesex and make Lord’s my home ground. This club has such a rich history, and it’s an honor to be part of its future. The chance to contribute to both red-ball and white-ball cricket played a huge role in my decision, and I look forward to contributing to the team’s success in the coming seasons.”
With his signing, Middlesex is optimistic about strengthening their squad and looks forward to a successful and competitive season ahead.
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