Chahal, Conway Confirm 2026 Returns to Northamptonshire; Josh Shaw Joins Somerset

Northamptonshire have confirmed the re-signing of Indian leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal and Australian fast bowler Harry Conway as overseas players for the 2026 English domestic season.

Conway will return for the start of the County Championship campaign after an impressive stint in 2025, where he claimed 20 wickets in just four matches. The 33-year-old will be available for the first block of seven Championship fixtures in April and May, strengthening Northamptonshire's pace attack early in the season.

Chahal, meanwhile, has agreed to return for a third consecutive year with the club. He will be available for the second half of the season, featuring in both the County Championship and the Metro Bank One-Day Cup. The Indian spinner has been a valuable asset for Northants, taking 44 first-class wickets and seven List A wickets across his previous two seasons.

Northamptonshire head coach Darren Lehmann praised both players, highlighting their contributions on and off the field.

“Yuzi is a magnificent asset to this squad,” Lehmann said. “His record across his career speaks for itself, and he brings so much class and experience. I loved working with him this year and am excited to go again in 2026. For young spinners like Nirvan Ramesh and Stuart van der Merwe, having Yuzi around will be a huge plus.”

Lehmann was equally enthusiastic about Conway’s return. “Harry is an excellent addition for 2026. His form last year was fantastic, and I’m excited to work with him for a longer period. His ability to take wickets on all surfaces and his presence around the team makes him an invaluable player.”

Josh Shaw Moves to Somerset

In other county cricket developments, Gloucestershire have lost yet another member of their bowling group, with seamer Josh Shaw signing with Somerset.

The 29-year-old spent six seasons with Gloucestershire after joining from Yorkshire, initially on loan. His departure adds to a growing list of bowlers leaving the club during the off-season, including Ajeet Singh Dale (Lancashire), Zaman Akhter (Essex), Archie Bailey (Durham), and Tom Price and Dom Goodman (both Sussex).

Somerset’s director of cricket, Andy Hurry, welcomed Shaw’s arrival, citing both his skillset and character.

“We have seen first-hand how impactful Josh can be,” Hurry said. “He has the ability to swing and seam the ball and is an excellent addition to our bowling unit. His strong character and willingness to improve will add real value to the dressing room and on the field. These attributes are vital as we aim to compete across all formats.”