A Bangladesh Test fast bowler has signed for Kent for six Rothesay County Championship Division 2 matches.
Hasan Mahmud, 26, will be available from Kent’s red-ball match against Lancashire in Blackpool from Friday before his home bow comes against Middlesex seven days later in the 174th Canterbury Cricket Week.
Mahmud then returns to play for Adam Hollioake’s men for four fixtures to end the County Championship summer in September.
The right-armer will be the first Bangladesh international to play for Kent in the county’s lengthy history, having taken 36 Test wickets since making his debut for Bangladesh against Sri Lanka in March 2024. Overall, he has played 13 times for his country.
“I’m honoured to have the opportunity to play county cricket for a historic club like Kent,” said Mahmud.
“Playing county cricket is a dream come true and it’s a proud moment, not only for me, but also for everyone back home in Bangladesh.
“I’m determined to work hard and contribute to the team’s success.
“I have spoken with Adam Hollioake and [director of cricket] Simon Cook about what I can bring to the squad and what will be expected of me, and I cannot wait to represent this county.
“I’m looking forward to meeting the club’s members and supporters, and seeing the Bangladeshi fans in the UK come out and support the team.
“Their passion for cricket is well known.”
England Cricket Board regulations state county sides can register up to four overseas players in a squad per format at any time, with two allowed in any playing XI.
Keith Dudgeon’s Kent stint covers the entire season and across all formats while fellow South African Senuran Muthusamy will also join Kent from August 1 until the end of the summer. Mahmud’s move is subject to regulatory approval.
Director of cricket Simon Cook said: “We’re delighted that the opportunity has arisen for us to welcome Hasan to our squad, adding international pace to our attack for the conclusion of the season.
“Hasan’s arrival reinforces the strong foundations we’ve built within the squad and gives us the opportunity to approach our remaining Championship matches with fresh energy, to push for promotion, particularly with Matt Milnes and Keith Dudgeon having carried a significant workload during the first half of the summer.
“He adds another quality bowling option.”
Kent Spitfires will be in Vitality T20 Blast action against Essex at Chelmsford tonight.
