England off-spinner Shoaib Bashir has embarked on a specialist coaching trip to Zimbabwe, seeking to revitalise his career after a frustrating Ashes winter. The 22-year-old, recently signed by Derbyshire, will work one-to-one with former Pakistan wrist-spinner and renowned spin consultant Mushtaq Ahmed.
Ashes Omission Sparks Development Push
Despite being primed for two years to face Australia, Bashir was overlooked for all five Tests during England's recent tour, raising significant questions about his international future. In response, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has taken a proactive role in his development, organising this intensive week of sessions in Harare.
The coaching opportunity coincides with the Under-19 World Cup, where Mushtaq is part of the England support staff. Bashir flew out on Wednesday evening, with sessions scheduled around the junior team's fixtures, beginning with their match against Pakistan on Friday.
A New Chapter at Derbyshire
This specialist support follows Bashir's official move to Derbyshire, where he signed a two-year contract on Thursday. The switch from Somerset, first revealed by Daily Mail Sport three weeks ago, marks a fresh start for the tall spinner.
Bashir's move was influenced by Derbyshire's ambitious coach Mickey Arthur, whose global experience with South Africa, Australia, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka impressed the young England international. In a virtual unveiling, Bashir called Arthur "one of the best coaches in the world" and described the move as "a great opportunity for any young player."
He expressed a desire to play more red-ball cricket, develop his white-ball skills, and help Derbyshire—who finished third in Division Two last year—challenge for promotion.
ECB's Hands-On Role in Nurturing Talent
The Zimbabwe trip underscores a direct intervention from Rob Key, England's director of cricket, who is playing a leading role in Bashir's progression. When Bashir's Somerset deal expired on October 31, Key advised him to prioritise the right environment over immediate playing demands, assuring him the ECB would facilitate both match time and access to top coaches.
Bashir's need for first-team cricket became acute at Somerset, where he was behind left-armer Jack Leach, leading to loan spells at Glamorgan and Worcestershire. His first-class record currently stands at 18 wickets at a costly average of 84, something he will be desperate to improve upon at Derbyshire.
He will compete for a spot with ex-Lancashire spinner Jack Morley, though the pair could play together in conducive conditions. The extra bounce at Derby's ground in recent seasons is also seen as beneficial for the 6ft 4in bowler.
Mushtaq Ahmed, highly valued by Graeme Swann during his six-year stint as England's spin coach from 2008-2014, returned to English cricket as a consultant in July 2024. His work with Bashir represents a significant investment in a player who has taken 68 wickets in 19 Test appearances but now seeks to cement his place.
