Noman Ali Joins Lancashire, Remains Available for Pakistan’s England Test Series

Pakistan left-arm spinner Noman Ali has signed a six-match deal with Lancashire for the remainder of the County Championship season, ensuring he will be in England and available as a backup option should Pakistan require spin-bowling cover during their upcoming three-Test series against England.

The 39-year-old enjoyed a remarkable return to Pakistan’s Test side during the home series against England in late 2024. Drafted in for the final two Tests, Noman claimed 20 wickets to help Pakistan recover from a 1-0 deficit and secure a memorable 2-1 series victory. However, he later lost his place in the squad during Pakistan’s tour of Bangladesh.

For the recent Test series against the West Indies, Pakistan opted for left-arm spinner Ali Usman, who impressed with six wickets in the second Test at Queen’s Park Oval, helping Pakistan level the series 1-1. Usman has retained his place in the squad for the England tour alongside off-spinner Sajid Khan, while Noman remains on standby in case of injuries.

Expressing his excitement after signing for Lancashire, Noman said he was eager to experience county cricket for the first time and looked forward to representing one of England’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 excited to play at Emirates Old Trafford. Lancashire is one of the biggest clubs in the UK, with a rich history. I’m following in the footsteps of Pakistan legend Wasim Akram, who represented the club for many years,” Noman said.

Lancashire are currently seventh in Division Two of the County Championship but still have an outside chance of earning promotion if they can finish the season strongly. The club has relied on homegrown spinners Tom Hartley and Arav Shetty this season, while Liam Livingstone and Australia’s Chris Green have also contributed in recent matches.

Lancashire Director of Cricket Mark Chilton welcomed the signing, describing Noman as an experienced and highly skilled spinner whose red-ball credentials make him an ideal addition for the final six Championship fixtures.

“Noman is a hugely skilful and experienced spin bowler. His performances for Pakistan over the last couple of years speak for themselves, and we believe his experience will make a significant impact during the closing stages of the County Championship,” Chilton said.

With Pakistan set to begin their three-Test series against England in Leeds on August 19, Noman’s presence in England provides the national team with an experienced spin-bowling option should the need arise.