Indian cricketers who are set to play in the 2025 County season

Over several generations, County Cricket has served as an ideal learning platform for youngsters and highly experienced pros to revamp their skills and core strengths in versatile playing conditions. It gives the cricketers an opportunity to learn from one another while being away from the international scene. Players, irrespective of their national identity, are put to the test and are required to adapt to different pitches and weather conditions, thus enhancing their overall cricketing experience and potentially boosting their chances of selection for national or franchise teams.

The influence of Indian cricketers in the County setup simply can't be overlooked. In the past, legendary cricketers such as Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, and Rahul Dravid have established themselves in County Cricket long before the current generation of Indian cricketers came into existence. 

As of present times, the onus is on the younger generation of Indian cricketers to take the game forward. And quite rightfully so, a handful number of Indian cricketers have enrolled for the ongoing County Season in a bid to keep themselves battle-ready for the crunch games. Here are five known Indian cricketers who are going to feature in the County Season 2025.

See also: County Championship 2025: Live Streaming Details & Where to watch

Confirmed Signings for the 2025 County Season

Ishan Kishan (Nottinghamshire)
India's wicketkeeper-batter has signed a short-term deal with Nottinghamshire for the 2025 County Championship, stepping in while Kyle Verreynne is on international duty.  His appointment was officially announced on June 20. Kishan will endure a two-match stint for Notts and will be available for selection in their matches against Yorkshire and Somerset.

Tilak Varma (Hampshire)
The young left-hander from Hyderabad has signed a four‑match stint deal for Hampshire from June 22 to August 1. He is set to make his County debut against Essex at Chelmsford from June 22‑25. The rationale behind opting for County cricket was to develop his temperament for playing red-ball cricket.  

Ruturaj Gaikwad (Yorkshire)
Chennai Super Kings’ captain Ruturaj Gaikwad will join Yorkshire until the end of the season, featuring in both the County Championship and One-Day Cup. He will join the squad ahead of the County Championship fixture against Surrey that is expected to take place on July 22 at Scarborough. Gaikwad's contract will stay valid throughout the 2025 season and will be expected to play five County Championship matches and the Metro Bank One-Day Cup starting in early August.

Shardul Thakur (Essex)
Indian seam-bowling all‑rounder Shardul Thakur has signed a seven‑match deal with Essex for the 2025 County Championship, marking his debut in English first‑class cricket. His appointment was confirmed on February 18, and the director of Essex Cricket expressed delight when the news of his deal broke out. Due to his involvement with the national side in the ongoing England series, Shardul's participation in the County cricket seems slightly uncertain at this stage. However, Shardul has reiterated his commitment to County Cricket in his prior discussions and seems highly determined to leave his mark behind. 

Yuzvendra Chahal (Northamptonshire)
The leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal returns to play for Northamptonshire in both the County Championship and the One-Day Cup. He has joined the squad after the conclusion of the IPL and is all set to play his first fixture against Middlesex on June 22.  Chahal has been an experienced campaigner in County cricket and has impressed quite a few observers with his past performances. Last season, Chahal played four Championship matches, taking 19 wickets at an impressive average of 21.0 across games and also starred in the One-Day Cup, claiming a 5-wicket haul on debut against Kent. 

Sai Sudharsan played for Surrey in 2023–24, but following a Test call-up in the ongoing England tour, there’s no confirmation from his side for the 2025 season. Players have taken a step in the right direction by making themselves available for the Country season. While away from their international duties, these players can get used to foreign conditions and get acquainted with several accomplished players in England's domestic circuit. It serves as an opportunity for them to enhance their skill and game plan under varying conditions.