Lancashire sign Pakistan spinner Noman Ali for County Championship

LONDON: Lancashire have signed Pakistan left-arm spinner Noman Ali for the remainder of the 2026 County Championship season, with the experienced slow bowler set to feature in the club's final six first-class fixtures across August and September.

The 38-year-old arrives with an impressive international record, having claimed more than 100 Test wickets since making his debut for Pakistan in 2021 at an average of around 25.

His achievements include career-best figures of 8-46 against England, while he also became the first Pakistan spinner to claim a Test hat-trick during a match against the West Indies in 2025.

Ali's outstanding performances also saw him rise to No. 2 in the ICC Men's Test bowling rankings last October after taking a 10-wicket match haul against South Africa in the first Test in Lahore.

The veteran spinner is expected to make his Lancashire debut against Northamptonshire in the County Championship on Thursday, August 20, with the fixture also serving as the club's Red Ball Celebration match at Emirates Old Trafford.

Speaking after completing the move, Ali expressed his excitement at playing county cricket in England for the first time and said he was eager to contribute to one of the country's most historic clubs.

"I am looking forward to playing for Lancashire and experiencing county cricket in England for the first time. The County Championship is a great competition and I'm very excited to play at Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground," Noman said.

The Pakistan spinner also spoke about Lancashire's rich history, noting that he would be following in the footsteps of Pakistan legend Wasim Akram, who enjoyed a distinguished spell with the county.

"Lancashire is one of the biggest clubs in the UK, with so much history and heritage. I am following in the footsteps of a Pakistan hero, Wasim Akram, who played for Lancashire for many years.

"I'm looking forward to joining up with my new teammates and will be doing all I can to make an impact on and off the field," he added.

Lancashire Director of Cricket Performance Mark Chilton said the club had been keen to add an experienced spinner for the decisive stages of the County Championship and believes Ali's pedigree will strengthen the squad.

Chilton praised the Pakistan international's proven record in red-ball cricket, highlighting his wealth of experience and ability to make an immediate impact as Lancashire aim for a strong finish to the season.

"Noman is a hugely skilful and experienced spin bowler, and we're delighted to bring him to Emirates Old Trafford Cricket Ground for the County Championship run-in," Chilton said.

"His record speaks for itself with the red ball – particularly for Pakistan over the last couple of years – and we believe his experience and know-how will make a real difference to us in these final six Championship games," he added.