Indian leg-spinner Rahul Chahar has signed with Surrey for their final County Championship match of the season against Hampshire at the Utilita Bowl. Surrey, chasing a fourth consecutive title, see Chahar’s inclusion as a timely boost after injuries weakened their spin department.
A Fresh Opportunity for Chahar
The 26-year-old was registered earlier in September but didn’t feature in Surrey’s games against Warwickshire and Nottinghamshire. That loss to Notts left Surrey trailing in the title race, making this final clash a must-win.
“I’m excited to join Surrey for this week’s match,” Chahar said. “I’m coming here to have an impact and help the team in their final match of the season.”
Surrey Strengthen Spin Options
Chahar, who has taken 87 wickets in 24 first-class matches at an average of 26.12, brings valuable experience. He has also represented India in one ODI and six T20Is and was a key figure in Mumbai Indians’ IPL titles in 2019 and 2020.
Surrey’s high-performance advisor Alec Stewart welcomed the addition:
“Adding Rahul to the squad gives us another spin option at the Utilita Bowl,” Stewart said. “We always knew players would be unavailable and planned accordingly. Unfortunately, Sai Kishore’s injury ruled him out.”
Title Race on the Line
Surrey sit 14 points behind Nottinghamshire heading into the final round. To lift the trophy again, they must secure a win while hoping Notts earn fewer than 11 points against Warwickshire.
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