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Pakistan Test pacer Mohammad Abbas has agreed a two-year deal with Derbyshire, signing on as one of the county’s overseas players for the 2026 and 2027 seasons.
Abbas arrives at Derbyshire with a formidable reputation in English red-ball cricket, having previously represented Leicestershire, Hampshire and most recently Nottinghamshire.
The experienced seamer played a pivotal role in Nottinghamshire’s County Championship triumph last summer, claiming 32 first-class wickets in nine matches at an impressive average of 21.46.
The move will see Abbas reunite with Mickey Arthur, who handed him his Test debut for Pakistan and is now leading Derbyshire’s ambitions from the dugout.
Arthur believes the addition of Abbas could be a defining moment in the club’s push for promotion.
“This is a statement signing for us,” Arthur said. “We’ve beaten a number of Division One counties to sign one of the finest red-ball bowlers around, and we’re absolutely delighted to have Mohammad on board for 2026 and 2027.”
“He’s an exceptional bowler who bowls maidens, builds pressure and takes wickets at a really impressive average. Beyond his skill, his experience will be invaluable for our young players to learn from.”
Since first arriving in 2018, Mohammad Abbas has taken 291 County Championship wickets at a remarkable average of 19.89, establishing himself as one of the most reliable overseas bowlers on the circuit.
His most recent Test appearance for Pakistan came earlier this year, in January.
Expressing his excitement at the move, Abbas said the opportunity to work with Arthur again played a major role in his decision.
“It’s exciting for me to join Derbyshire and work with Mickey Arthur again,” Abbas said. “He’s a fantastic coach, and after hearing his plans for the club, it’s clear we share the same ambition, to be in Division One.
“The team only just missed out on promotion in 2025, so I’m hoping I can contribute with performances that help win a few more games and give our supporters a trophy to celebrate.”
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