Lancashire Women have pulled off a major coup ahead of the 2026 season by securing the services of England stars Sophie Ecclestone and Mahika Gaur. The pair have signed “shadow contracts” that tie them to the club alongside their national duties, ensuring that whenever the international schedule allows, two of the most dangerous bowlers in the world will be wearing the Red Rose.
For Sophie Ecclestone, this deal is a homecoming of sorts. Now 26 and firmly established as the top-ranked spinner on the planet, Ecclestone is a product of Lancashire’s own academy. Her stats for the club are staggering—91 wickets in just 58 games—but it’s her global reputation as the fastest woman to reach 100 ODI wickets that makes her such a vital asset. Having a player of her caliber in the dressing room provides an immediate psychological edge before a ball is even bowled.
At the other end of the experience scale is 19-year-old Mahika Gaur, whose rise has been nothing short of meteoric. Since joining Lancashire in 2023, the left-arm seamer has quickly become one of the most talked-about prospects in the English game. With 40 wickets in 35 appearances for the club, her height and swing have already earned her an England debut. Keeping her at Old Trafford is a clear signal of the club’s intent to build a squad capable of sustained dominance.
David Thorley, Director of Women’s Cricket, couldn’t hide his pride in the double signing. He noted that Ecclestone’s transition from a local youngster to a world-beater is a blueprint for the club’s success. “Mahika is an exciting young cricketer with enormous potential, who has already demonstrated her quality at domestic level and on the international stage,” Thorley added. He emphasized that having stars of this magnitude isn’t just about winning games; it’s about “providing inspiration for the next generation” currently working their way through the Lancashire pathway.
The 2026 season is shaping up to be a defining one for the region. By locking in both the seasoned brilliance of Ecclestone and the raw, left-arm pace of Gaur, Lancashire have ensured their bowling attack remains one of the most feared in the country. Fans can now look forward to seeing local heroes leading the charge as the club hunts for silverware in the coming year.
I am Yash Tailor, and I believe work should be driven by passion. Therefore, after completing my Engineering, I chose to work in the Cricket industry, my passion. My goal is to reach a stage where I truly enjoy what I do and give my best to every task with energy and purpose.