Saif Zaib has decided to leave Northamptonshire with a year remaining on his contract, with plans to join Hampshire as they seek an immediate promotion to Division One of the County Championship.
Zaib, 28, who emerged as the leading run-scorer in 2025 with an impressive tally of 1425 Championship runs at an average of 64.77 — including six centuries — experienced a somewhat quieter season this year. Nonetheless, he still amassed 856 runs at an average of 42.80, with three hundreds to his name, as Northamptonshire narrowly missed out on promotion from Division Two and celebrated a T20 Blast victory.
Despite extending his contract in early 2025, Zaib informed Northamptonshire of his decision to move on at the end of the current season. “The 28-year-old had informed the club at the end of the season that he did not see his future career at Northamptonshire, and despite discussions to reverse that decision, he will now leave the club,” stated the team’s official release on Thursday morning.
Although Northamptonshire did not disclose Zaib’s future destination, sources indicate that he will be joining Hampshire, aiming to contribute significantly to their aspirations of returning to Division One after being relegated this season.
Hampshire have already strengthened their squad by signing Rishi Patel and Fynn Hudson-Prentice from Leicestershire and Sussex, respectively, following the retirements of James Vince and Liam Dawson from red-ball cricket.
Zaib expressed his gratitude in the club’s statement, saying: “It’s been a real honour to represent Northamptonshire CCC, especially as the club has been such a big part of my life for so long. I’ll always be grateful for the memories, friendships and experiences I’ve had along the way.” He also thanked supporters, adding: “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the love and support you’ve shown me over the years. It’s meant so much to me and sharing those special moments with you is something I’ll always treasure.”
Earlier this summer, Zaib had a short stint with Southern Brave during the Hundred and is keen to explore more opportunities in franchise cricket. After the conclusion of the English summer, he played in the Canada Super60 and is currently representing the Sudur Paschim Royals in the Nepal Premier League.
