Tag: Worcestershire

Usama Mir set to join Worcestershire on three-year deal

Posted on by A Sports

Pakistan leg-spinner Usama Mir has signed a three-year T20 deal with Worcestershire, after which he will transition to a local player in 2027.

Worcestershire County Cricket Club are delighted to announce the signing of Pakistan international leg-spinner Usama Mir on a three-year T20 contract.

The deal will see Mir join the Pears as an overseas player for the 2026 season, before becoming classed as a homegrown player from 2027 onwards.

The 29-year-old will join Worcestershire for the 2026 season and will become a local signing starting from 2027 onwards.

Usama Mir, who has represented Pakistan in T20Is and ODIs, has been a regular in the T20 circuit around the globe; however, he has not been part of Pakistan’s team plans in recent times.

Following the deal, Worcestershire’s CEO, Ashley Giles, shed light on the contract, emphasizing that longevity is a crucial factor.

“He’s a high-calibre cricketer with the skills and temperament to make a real impact at this level,” Ashley Giles said.

“His ability to transition into a homegrown player from 2027 gives us great flexibility in squad planning and shows our commitment to building a competitive team for the long term,” he added.

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According to the details, Usama Mir will play as an overseas player quota in the first year. However, he will qualify as a local player in the second and third years due to residency regulations

Worcestershire head coach also lauded Usama Mir as a player and called it a huge opportunity.

“It’s huge for Worcestershire. The club has a very proud history and a rich history of quality overseas signings.

“I am looking forward to seeing Usama get to work. The signing underlines our intent to strengthen the squad with international quality while we continue to invest in growth through our youth and pathway system,” he concluded.

The Sialkot-born spinner has played in 12 ODIs and 5 T20Is for Pakistan. However, his last appearance in the 50-over format came in 2023 against New Zealand, whereas he played his previous T20I on 27 April 2024 against the same team.

READ: WATCH: Fan asked to cover Pakistan jersey during India-England Test

Worcestershire spinner Josh Baker passes away aged 20

Posted on by A Sports

REDDITCH: The Worcestershire County Cricket Club on Thursday, announced the “untimely passing” of their 20-year-old left-arm spinner Josh Baker, leaving the cricket fraternity in deep shock.

“Worcestershire County Cricket Club is heartbroken to announce the untimely passing of Josh Baker, who was aged only 20 years old,” wrote the county club.

“More than his skills as a spin bowler, it was his vibrant spirit and infectious enthusiasm that endeared him to everyone he met.

“His warmth, kindness, and professionalism were remarkable, making him a true credit to his family and a loved member of our team.”

 

Baker, who signed his contract with the club in 2021, soon made a name for himself as he took 43 wickets in 22 first-class matches. He also had 27 scalps to his name in 25 white-ball outings.

During his two-year stint with Worcestershire, Baker showcased his all-round abilities as he scored two half-centuries, the highlight of which was his career-best 75 against Gloucestershire in July 2023.

His last appearance for Worcestershire came Wednesday when he played in a second XI fixture against Somerset and took three wickets.

“During this profoundly difficult time, the Club is dedicated to supporting Josh’s family, friends, and colleagues. We are united in our grief and committed to honouring his memory in a manner befitting the remarkable person he was,” added the club’s statement.

Worcestershire further added that they are “committed to honouring his memory in a manner befitting the remarkable person he was” but the plans to pay tribute to Josh Baker will remain private for the time being.

Pakistan spinner Usama Mir, who is poised to join Worcestershire for T20 Blast also expressed grievance on the shocking demise of the young spinner.

“So sad and upset to hear the news of Josh’s passing. He was one of the nicest people you could meet. And a brilliant cricketer,” Mir wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

READ: Jofra Archer returns to England squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024