Zaman Akhter Joins Essex on Three-Year Deal Amid Gloucestershire Exodus

Zaman Akhter Joins Essex on Three-Year Deal Amid Gloucestershire Exodus

the rising Gloucestershire fast bowler, has signed a three-year contract with Essex, becoming the latest in a string of departures from the Bristol-based county.

The 26-year-old seamer, who rose to prominence after a breakthrough stint with Gloucestershire, joins Essex as the club begins a squad reshaping under returning director of cricket Chris Silverwood. The move marks a significant step for both Akhter and Essex, who are looking to strengthen their bowling options following a difficult season in Division One of the County Championship.

From SACA to the Lions

Akhter’s journey to professional cricket has been anything but conventional. After making his first-class debut for Oxford MCCU in 2019, his career was revitalized through the South Asian Cricket Academy (SACA), a development pathway designed to give overlooked British South Asian talent a second chance. That opportunity led to a county contract with Gloucestershire at the age of 24.

His pace and consistency quickly earned him recognition, including a call-up to the England Lions, and his performances have made him a sought-after asset on the domestic circuit.

Silverwood Excited to Add Akhter to Squad

Essex director of cricket Chris Silverwood expressed enthusiasm over the acquisition.

“We are really excited to bring ‘Zum’ into the group. He’s a player we’ve had our eye on for a while, and we believe his quality will add real strength to our bowling unit,” Silverwood said. “I’m looking forward to working closely with Zaman over the winter as we build towards the 2026 season.”

A Thrilled Akhter Ready for the Next Challenge

Akhter, too, expressed excitement about joining a club with a proud history and competitive edge.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Essex,” he said. “It’s a great club with a rich history and a strong winning culture. Speaking to Chris Silverwood, it’s a really exciting time and I hope I can thrive at Essex and contribute to future success on and off the field.”

Gloucestershire’s Pace Exodus Continues

Akhter’s move adds to an ongoing exodus of fast bowlers from Gloucestershire. In recent weeks, Ajeet Singh Dale confirmed a move to Lancashire, while Tom Price and Dom Goodman are both set to join Sussex at the end of the season.

With four of their frontline seamers heading elsewhere, Gloucestershire now face the challenge of rebuilding their bowling attack heading into the 2026 season.

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