International Call-Up Offers Chance To Show Strength In Depth
20.04.26, 16:48 Updated 20.04.26, 16:48 3 Minute Read
Matthew Rhodes
There was, perhaps, not much surprise at the recent news that Muhammad Abbas has been selected for the Pakistan squad ahead of next month’s two-match test series against Bangladesh. Every Derbyshire fan knew there was every chance that international commitments might play a role in the club’s 2026 campaign. While Abbas will still be able to play in Derbyshire’s next match at home against Gloucestershire in the four-day game, the experienced seamer will be unavailable for selection for the upcoming County Championship Division Two games against Kent, Northamptonshire and Middlesex.
Abbas has featured in both of Derbyshire’s red ball matches played so far this season since signing from reigning County Championship Division One champions Nottinghamshire. At home against Worcestershire, the seamer failed to collect a wicket during the opponents’ first innings. However, Abbas impressed over the course of Worcestershire’s second innings. The Pakistan international secured figures of 2-31, with an economy of just 1.63 from 19 overs. Away at Lancashire, the 36 year-old pace bowler claimed overall match figures of 4-101 and played an important role in helping to put Derbyshire in a phenomenal position to record a victory over the red rose county. Of course, a dramatic final day’s play led to an agonising defeat for Mickey Arthur’s side in the end.
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Matthew Rhodes Matthew is a freelance sports broadcaster, commentator and journalist. He provides live audio commentaries and on the whistle written match reports on football games for Flashscore. He also spent four years as North Derbyshire Radio's senior sports editor. Matthew was born in Chesterfield and grew up in the town.