Saif Zaib to join Hampshire after Northamptonshire exit

With one year remaining on his contract, Saif Zaib has left Northamptonshire. It has learned that he is set to join Hampshire as they bid for promotion straight back to Division One of the County Championship.

Zaib, 28, was the leading run-scorer in the country in 2025, making 1425 Championship runs at 64.77 including six hundreds. He had a slightly quieter year this summer, but still managed 856 runs at 42.80 with three hundreds as Northants narrowly missed out on promotion from Division Two, and was part of the side that won the T20 Blast.

He told Northants that he would be leaving at the end of this season, despite having extended his contract in the beginning of 2025. "The 28-year-old had informed the club at the end of the season that he did not see his future career at Northamptonshire" was what they said in a statement on Thursday morning. "Despite discussions to reverse that decision, he will now leave the club."

Northants did not say where Zaib would play next, but they have learned that he will go to Hampshire. He will be a big part of their plans to get back to Division One right away after being relegated this season.

Hampshire have already signed Rishi Patel and Fynn Hudson-Prentice from Leicestershire and Sussex respectively as they look to rebuild their squad following James Vince and Liam Dawson's retirements from red-ball cricket.

"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," Zaib said in the club's statement. "For the memories, friendships, and experiences I've had along the way, I'll always be grateful."

"To the supporters, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the love and support you've shown me over the years. Sharing those special moments with you is something I'll always treasure, and it has meant so much to me."

Zaib played for Southern Brave in the Hundred for four weeks this summer, and he is actively seeking additional franchise opportunities. After the English summer ended, he participated in the Canada Super60 and is currently playing for Sudur Paschim Royals in the Nepal Premier League.