Mohammad Ali signs short-term multi-format deal with Nottinghamshire

Pakistan seamer Mohammad Ali has signed a short-term, multi-format contract with Nottinghamshire, joining the county for the final two months of the 2026 English domestic season.

The 33-year-old is set to arrive at the start of August and will be available for selection in both the Rothesay County Championship and the Metro Bank One Day Cup until the end of the campaign.

Ali brings with him a wealth of experience, having claimed more than 300 career wickets at an impressive average of 24.65. He has represented Pakistan across all three formats, with his most recent international appearance coming in an ODI against New Zealand in March last year.

“I am really pleased to be joining Nottinghamshire,” Ali said. “I have always wanted to play county cricket and get experience of English conditions, so I am excited to have that chance. Trent Bridge is a really famous ground around the world, so I am really looking forward to playing there and helping Nottinghamshire to achieve success.”

The right-arm seamer is already a familiar face to the Trent Bridge coaching setup, having worked closely with Nottinghamshire assistant head coach Paul Franks during the 2022-23 Pakistani domestic season. Ali played a key role for Central Punjab, who were coached by Franks at the time.

During that Quaid-e-Azam Trophy campaign, Pakistan’s premier first-class competition, Ali finished as the fifth-highest wicket-taker, claiming 24 wickets at an average of 25.54. He also played a pivotal role in Central Punjab’s domestic 50-over triumph, taking six wickets in five matches, including figures of 2/31 in the final.

“I really enjoyed working with Paul Franks in the past and I am looking forward to being able to work with him again, in different formats,” Ali said. “Being able to play red-ball and white-ball cricket is exciting, and I am looking forward to helping the team at an important time in the season.”

Franks welcomed the signing, highlighting both Ali’s cricketing ability and his off-field qualities.

“It was Mohammad’s character and personality that really hit home for me when I coached him while in Pakistan,” Franks said. “That’s what’s kept him on our radar ever since. We’ve stayed in touch regularly, and while we’ve explored opportunities to bring him to the club before, this one felt right for both him and us.

“He’s a real pleasure to coach, and I’m certainly looking forward to seeing him again later this year.”

Ali’s arrival adds depth and experience to Nottinghamshire’s bowling attack as they enter a crucial phase of the 2026 season across both red-ball and white-ball competitions.