Former Pakistan star set for England debut

Many talented Pakistan-origin cricketers move abroad and represent other countries after not getting enough chances at home. Zafar Gohar, a left-arm spinner, could be the next player to represent another country if he manages to play for England.

Gohar was once considered a promising young talent in Pakistan. However, he didn’t receive many opportunities at the international level. Now, at 30, he is performing well in English county cricket and is among the top players in Division 2. He currently plays for Middlesex and continues to show his skill and potential.

In a recent interview with international media, Gohar spoke about how close he came to playing for Pakistan. In 2015, he was called up to the Test squad as a replacement for Yasir Shah. However, after an unexpected situation, he missed his flight.

"I waited until late at night for travel details, then was told to rest. I could not wake up in time. The next morning, they blamed everything on me. I was devastated," Gohar said about the incident.

He later played an ODI in 2015 and a Test match in 2021, but he was unable to secure a regular place in the team. Despite performing well in county cricket, taking 47 wickets and scoring 500 runs for Gloucestershire in 2022, the Pakistan Cricket Board did not consider him again.

After years of waiting, Gohar made a major decision. Since he holds a British passport and has not played for Pakistan in the past three years, he is eligible to represent England. Now, with Middlesex, he has already taken 15 wickets in the 2025 County Championship season.

"I think I have just reached my prime, and I feel ready to take on this new challenge," said Gohar. "I had heard England was the toughest place for spinners to get wickets, but I got wickets. That was the point I decided, right, I am going to take my chance. I know it is a big, big ask to get picked for England, but I love challenges."

Gohar is also a skilled batter, which adds to his value as a player. If he goes on to play for England, he will join the list of cricketers who have represented more than one country. Eoin Morgan made the switch from Ireland to England, while Ed Joyce and Gary Ballance played for other countries after beginning their careers with England.