In-form India pacer Mukesh Kumar has joined Nottinghamshire for the final two matches of the 2026 English County Championship season. The move comes after an impressive domestic campaign that has further strengthened his case as one of India’s reliable pace options. Mukesh arrives in England on the back of a standout Duleep Trophy campaign, where he finished as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 12 wickets at an outstanding average of 14.91.
He also played a crucial role in East Zone’s title-winning campaign in the final. The county stint will be a new experience for the 32-year-old, who has so far represented only Bengal in domestic cricket. Mukesh has made 26 international appearances across formats, including three Tests, and has claimed 32 wickets for India.
“I am really pleased to sign for Nottinghamshire at an important time in the season. I can’t wait to arrive in England and test myself in county cricket.” Mukesh is also looking forward to adapting to English conditions and contributing to Nottinghamshire’s campaign during the final stage of the season.
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“Coming to England is always a good challenge, and I am excited by the chance to play for a new team in new conditions.”
Welcome, Mukesh! 🇮🇳
We’re delighted to add India seamer Mukesh Kumar to our bowling attack for the final two Rothesay County Championship matches.
Read the full story 👉 https://t.co/ozTfOKlUvm pic.twitter.com/w1zFBu6qNf
— Nottinghamshire CCC (@TrentBridge) September 14, 2026
Nottinghamshire head coach Peter Moores welcomed the signing and believes Mukesh’s recent competitive cricket makes him an ideal addition for the team’s final fixtures. “We’re really excited to get Mukesh over at what is a crucial time of the season.”
Moores was particularly impressed by Mukesh’s performance in the Duleep Trophy final and highlighted the pacer’s match readiness. He also pointed to the quality required to earn a place in India’s highly competitive bowling attack.
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With Nottinghamshire entering the decisive phase of their County Championship campaign, Mukesh’s ability to maintain pressure and exploit different conditions could prove valuable. His recent form, combined with his international experience, gives the English county side an experienced pace option for the final two games of the season.
