Pears sign Notts spinner Singh on three-year deal

Worcestershire have signed Nottinghamshire spinner Fateh Singh on a three-year contract, following his short-term One-Day Cup loan in the 2024 season.

Slow left-armer Singh, 20, who finished the season on another loan with Northamptonshire, is now tied to Worcester until the end of the 2027 campaign.

"This is a crucial step as we continue to build our squad," said Worcestershire chief executive Ashley Giles.

"Strengthening our spin department has been a priority. Fateh demonstrated his potential in the One-Day Cup."

The former England Under-19 international made his first-class debut when Northants played Yorkshire in the final Division Two game of the season - but will now be in contention to play in Division One for Worcestershire, who comfortably stayed up, finishing in their highest position since County Championship cricket switched to a two-tier structure in 2000.

The Pears' spin department was badly affected by the tragic early-season loss of Josh Baker.

Skipper Brett D'Oliveira's shoulder injury limited his bowling, while the Pears also opted not to pursue the mooted g of Surrey's Amar Virdi, following his two loans at New Road.

"I'm absolutely thrilled to be back with Worcestershire long term," said Nottingham-born Singh, who was part of a young Pears side that surprisingly made the One-Day Cup quarter-finals.

"Playing regularly and contributing with wickets as part of a young attack was very rewarding. I was made to feel so welcome, and I found a strong rhythm with the ball. With several players out injured, everyone stepped up, which was brilliant."