Nottingham (England), Nov 13 (NationPress) Australian fast bowler Fergus O’Neill has finalized a deal that ensures his return to Trent Bridge for the upcoming 2026 and 2027 County Championship seasons. O’Neill will compete in County Championship cricket for Nottinghamshire from April to June over the next two years.

The 24-year-old made a significant impact during his debut season in county cricket this summer, securing 21 wickets across just four matches at an impressive average of 17.90, which includes two five-wicket hauls.

“I’m excited to return and ensure our momentum continues! Trent Bridge is a fantastic venue, filled with wonderful people, where I’ve experienced success,” O’Neill stated. “Given the accomplishments I achieved and the team’s success, it was an easy choice for me to commit for another two years.”

Recognized for his precise bowling and capability to swing the ball in both directions, O’Neill has been dubbed “the most formidable bowler in the Sheffield Shield.”

Prior to his initial tenure at Trent Bridge, he clinched two consecutive Bill Lawry Medals, awarded to Victoria’s top First-Class Player, after taking 78 wickets in just 18 Shield matches.

Arriving in the UK only two days before Nottinghamshire’s 2025 Championship opener against Durham, O’Neill quickly demonstrated his prowess by achieving 5/81 in his first match.

His subsequent performance of 5 for 19 against Warwickshire at Edgbaston two weeks later contributed significantly to securing two victories in Nottinghamshire’s first four matches, paving the way for a successful season.

“Winning is my primary motivation. Therefore, as long as I’m part of Nottinghamshire, I’ll strive to help us capture another Championship title,” O’Neill emphasized.

Head coach Peter Moores added, “Every so often, a player arrives who fits seamlessly into the team, and Fergus was that player last year. His influence on the field was evident, but his off-field impact was equally significant.

“His enthusiasm and eagerness to compete were contagious, as was his self-belief. That confidence resonated with the entire team and served as a catalyst for our season's start. His skill in moving the ball and maintaining control over line and length suited English conditions perfectly, and it’s fantastic that the upcoming changes in regulations will enable him to take on a more significant role next season.

“We eagerly anticipate his return, both to build upon his promising start with Nottinghamshire and to positively affect our title defense,” Moores concluded.