India-born bowler joins English team [Source: AFP]In an unexpected development, a Rajasthan-born Indian fast bowler has signed a short-term contract with Leicestershire County Cricket Club ahead of the 2026 season. This is shocking, as generally, County Clubs do not generally go for inexperienced Indian bowlers. But this time, Leicestershire has set an unexpected precedent. Yadvinder Singh will feature in the 2026 County SeasonAccording to Cricinfo, Rajasthan-born Indian fast bowler Yadvinder Singh will play for Leicestershire in the 2026 County Season. He previously played for Worcestershire County Cricket Club from 2024 to 2025.However, after limited opportunities, Yadvinder Singh was released after the 2025 season. Regardless, he now has a fresh opportunity to prove himself.A key reason why Leicestershire signed Yadvinder Singh is that the team is struggling with injuries, especially to their pacers. Moreover, Yadvinder has been training with them during the winter. His skillset and control impressed coaches as they eventually decided to offer him a short-term contract.Overall, this new deal is mostly a trial period. If Yadvinder Singh performs well, Leicestershire may convert it into a long-term offer.Also Read - England Legend Announces Retirement In The Midst Of IPL 2026Yadvinder expresses gratitude to LeicestershireMeanwhile, after signing the contract, Yadvinder Singh expressed gratitude to Leicestershire and said he is already familiar with the squad. So it will help him gel up easily in the upcoming season. "I'm really pleased to be given this opportunity with Leicestershire. I've enjoyed my time training with the squad, and I'm excited to contribute over the first part of the season." Not only that, but South Asian Cricket Academy’s head coach Alfonso Thomas also praised Yadvinder Singh for his preparation and believes he will get real opportunities this time with Leicestershire County Club."We are thrilled that Yaddy has another opportunity to make his mark in the professional game. He will have a great chance at Leicestershire to prove that he has what it takes to perform at this level. His opportunities with Worcestershire in 2024 and 2025 were frustratingly limited, however, with Leicestershire, he will have the chance to prove his worth with ball-in-hand early in the season,” Thomas said.2026 County Championship to begin in AprilThat being said, the upcoming 2026 County Championship will begin on April 3 with the final scheduled for September 27. A total of 18 teams will compete in two divisions.The new season will start with matches like Warwickshire vs Surrey, Hampshire vs Essex and Somerset vs Nottinghamshire. Interestingly, the domestic tournament will run continuously from April to September with breaks in between. Overall, it's an important season, as the County Championship is the backbone of England Test cricket.It's a platform for players to break into the England team and prove red-ball consistency and is equally important for overseas players like Indians to improve their red-ball skills.Also Read - South Africa's Ex-IPL Star Announces Shocking Retirement
