LONDON: Zafar Gohar, a Pakistani left-arm orthodox spinner, has built a notable career across international, domestic, and English county cricket.
Born on December 1, 1994, in Lahore, he gained recognition through consistent performances in Pakistan’s first-class cricket, which eventually earned him a place in the national team.
He made his Test debut in 2021 against South Africa, creating history by taking a wicket with the very first delivery of his Test career.
Known for his accuracy and control, Gohar has also contributed useful runs in the lower order.
Alongside domestic cricket in Pakistan, his exposure to English county cricket has played a key role in shaping his development as a professional cricketer.
Six months after making his Test debut, Gohar signed a county contract with Gloucestershire and later settled in the United Kingdom.
He also represented Middlesex as a local player during the previous domestic season.
His extended stay in England now makes him eligible to represent the national side under ICC regulations, which allow players to change international allegiance if they have not played for their former country in the preceding three years.
Speaking about his move, Gohar said relocating to England was a well-planned decision aimed at advancing his career.
He expressed satisfaction at qualifying as an English player and described the possibility of playing for England as a major personal achievement.
Highlighting his performances in county cricket, he said that committing to England as his sole international team was a requirement of playing as a local and that he had fully embraced that commitment.
Gohar will be 31 years old when England resume Test cricket against New Zealand in June, at a time when the team has struggled to find a consistent spin-bowling option.
Shoaib Bashir emerged as a preferred spinner last year but missed out on the Ashes, while experienced spinner Jack Leach has not featured in a Test since England’s tour of Pakistan in late 2024.
Reflecting on his time with Pakistan, Gohar described it as both fulfilling and disappointing.
He said playing for Pakistan was a lifelong dream, but felt he could have achieved more if given sustained opportunities.
He explained that despite strong domestic performances, limited chances prompted him to seek a new path in England, where county cricket had always been his long-term ambition.
Gohar’s journey carries an interesting link with England. His only One-Day International appearance came against England in 2015, a year after he was named Player of the Match in the Under-19 World Cup semifinal against the same opposition.
That intense match saw Pakistan secure a dramatic victory before losing the final to South Africa.
Emphasizing his competitive mindset, Gohar said he thrives on challenges.
He recalled doubts surrounding his signing with Gloucestershire due to spin-friendly conditions at Bristol, but responded by taking 10 wickets in a single match there, becoming one of the county’s most successful spinners in decades.
He concluded by saying that skepticism only strengthens his determination to succeed.
