Cricketers signing multi-year county deals isn’t exactly rare, but when a club plans three years ahead with a clear eye on residency status, you know they’re banking on something big. And that’s exactly what Worcestershire have done with Usama Mir.

The English county announced on Monday that the Pakistan international has inked a three-year contract. He’ll play as an overseas player in 2026, and from 2027 onwards, he’ll be classified as a local.

Back Where He Belongs

This isn’t unfamiliar territory for Usama Mir. He previously turned out for Worcestershire in the 2023 season and made an immediate impact, topping both the batting and bowling charts. That’s rare for a spinner.

He was supposed to return last year too, but red tape got in the way. Visa complications meant the leggie had to watch from afar as Hayden Walsh took his place. But now, with all the paperwork lined up, Usama’s ready for a long-term run.

Ashley Giles Is All In

If you’re wondering how highly the club rates him, just read what Worcestershire CEO Ashley Giles had to say: “He’s a high-calibre cricketer with the skills and temperament to make a real impact at this level.”

Giles isn’t just excited about what Mir brings on the pitch. The big takeaway is his transition to a homegrown player from 2027 onwards. For a club working within tight squad limits and overseas quotas, that’s gold.

“It gives us great flexibility in squad planning and shows our commitment to building a competitive team for the long term,” Giles added.

A T20 Journeyman With Global Experience

At 29, Usama Mir is a well-travelled cricketer. He’s worn Pakistan colours in five T20Is and 12 ODIs. But his bread and butter remains the franchise scene.

He’s been part of high-octane leagues like the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia, The Hundred in England, and, of course, the Pakistan Super League (PSL). In total, he’s played 156 T20s, taken 178 wickets at an average of just under 23, and has an economy rate under 8. That’s impressive no matter where you bowl.

With the bat, he’s no mug either. Nearly 500 runs in T20s, not eye-popping, but handy enough to be called a bowling all-rounder.

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