Rahul Chahar Set to Rejoin Surrey for Final Matches of County Championship
Synopsis
Rahul Chahar, the Indian leg-spinner, is returning to Surrey for the last eight matches of the County Championship, following a stunning debut last year where he took 10 wickets against Hampshire.
Key Takeaways
Rahul Chahar returns to Surrey for the County Championship.
Chahar had a remarkable debut last year, taking 10 wickets against Hampshire .
He will join the team after IPL commitments with CSK .
Surrey aims for success after winning the championship from 2022 to 2024.
Chahar's experience could be crucial for the team's aspirations in 2026.
London, March 26 (NationPress) Indian leg-spinner Rahul Chahar is set to make his return to Surrey for the last eight fixtures in the forthcoming County Championship season, as announced by the club on Thursday. The 26-year-old impressed during his debut for Surrey last year, taking 10 wickets in a victory against Hampshire, notably achieving second-innings figures of 8/51.
These figures stand as the best recorded by a debutant bowler in the club’s history, surpassing a 166-year-old record held by William Mudie of 7/61 established in 1859. Chahar has represented India on seven occasions in white-ball formats and will be available starting June 7, when Surrey takes on Hampshire at The Oval, following his duties with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2026.
“I’m thrilled to return to Surrey this season. I had a wonderful time during my brief period in 2025 and eagerly accepted the chance to come back this season after speaking with Alec Stewart. Surrey is a prestigious club, and I aim to contribute to the team’s success in 2026,” Chahar expressed in a statement.
With 101 wickets in 27 first-class matches, Chahar was part of the IPL-winning teams of the Mumbai Indians in 2019 and 2020. He has also played for Rising Pune Supergiants, Punjab Kings, and Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL before being picked up by CSK during last year's auction in Abu Dhabi.
The director of cricket at Surrey, Alec Stewart, remarked, “Rahul made a significant impact last year at Hampshire, showcasing his talent. We’re eager to welcome him back and see how he can help us secure victories for Surrey.”
Surrey clinched the County Championship Division One title from 2022 to 2024 and finished as runners-up last season, trailing champions Nottinghamshire. They will kick off their 2026 campaign against Warwickshire in Birmingham on April 3.
Point of View
Rahul Chahar's return to Surrey is a strategic move that highlights the club's aim to strengthen their lineup. His previous success and experience in international and domestic cricket could be pivotal in achieving their goals for the upcoming season.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Rahul Chahar rejoin Surrey?
Rahul Chahar will rejoin Surrey on June 7, when they face Hampshire at The Oval.
What were Rahul Chahar's achievements during his debut season with Surrey?
During his debut season, Chahar took 10 wickets against Hampshire, including remarkable second-innings figures of 8/51.
How many first-class matches has Rahul Chahar played?
Rahul Chahar has played 27 first-class matches and taken 101 wickets.
Which IPL teams has Rahul Chahar played for?
Chahar has played for Rising Pune Supergiants, Punjab Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Mumbai Indians before joining Chennai Super Kings.
What is Surrey's recent performance in the County Championship?
Surrey won the County Championship Division One title from 2022 to 2024 and finished as runners-up last season.
