A New Chapter for Josh Little
Josh Little, the 25-year-old left-arm seamer from Ireland, is poised to embark on a new and exciting chapter in his cricket career by joining Middlesex for the 2025 season. This move follows in the footsteps of his former international teammate Tim Murtagh, who also represented the club. Little’s primary focus will likely be on the Vitality Blast, the popular T20 tournament, but he will also be available for other formats, provided his international and domestic commitments allow. The deal is almost finalized, with the final details hinging on Cricket Ireland issuing a No Objection Certificate.
A Promising Start and Meteoric Rise
Josh Little’s journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. He made his international debut in 2019 in a T20 match against England in Dublin, an occasion that saw him claim 4 wickets for just 45 runs. This performance on debut hinted at his potential and quickly established him as a rising star in Irish cricket. Since then, he has amassed 139 international wickets across both white-ball formats, solidifying his reputation as one of Ireland’s most promising young talents. His best figures, 6 for 36, came in a One Day International (ODI) against Zimbabwe in Harare in December 2023, showcasing his ability to perform on the global stage under pressure.
Global Experience and Impact
Little’s cricket career extends far beyond his performances for the national team. He has gained extensive experience in the T20 franchise circuit, playing for several high-profile teams around the world. A notable highlight was his stint with the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he played a crucial role in helping the team reach the final in 2023. His presence in the Caribbean Premier League, the SA20, the ILT20, Major League Cricket, the Lanka Premier League, and The Hundred adds to his resume, making him a well-rounded and versatile player. Specifically, he has had two stints with Manchester Originals and Welsh Fire in The Hundred, further honing his skills in this innovative format of the game.
Joining Middlesex: A Prestigious Move
For Josh Little, joining Middlesex is a significant milestone in his career. "It’s an honour and a privilege to have the opportunity to be part of Middlesex, one of the most prestigious cricket clubs in our game," Little said. "I can’t wait to meet everyone, see some familiar faces, and put in the hard yards both on and off the field." His enthusiasm is palpable, reflecting the deep respect he holds for the club. The prospect of playing at Lord’s, one of cricket’s most iconic grounds, is particularly thrilling for Little. "The opportunity to play at Lord’s is hugely exciting and I can’t wait to get going," he added, emphasizing his eagerness to contribute to Middlesex’s success.
Middlesex’s Perspective
Alan Coleman, Middlesex’s director of cricket, is equally excited about the addition of Josh Little to the squad. "To secure a player of Josh’s T20 experience and proven ability is huge for us, as he has performed at the highest level of white-ball cricket around the world for the last few years," Coleman noted. Little’s unique qualities, including his genuine pace, left-handed seam bowling, and a potent short ball, bring a different dynamic to the Middlesex attack. His versatility in bowling both at the top and in the death overs of an innings makes him an invaluable asset. "We can’t wait to welcome Josh to the Club and look forward to unleashing him on the Blast this summer," Coleman concluded, highlighting the club’s anticipation for Little’s impact on the team.
Looking Ahead to the Future
As Josh Little prepares to join Middlesex, the future looks bright for both the player and the club. Little’s combination of international experience and franchise circuit success positions him well to contribute to Middlesex’s aspirations in the Vitality Blast and beyond. His ability to bowl effectively in crucial stages of the game and his competitive spirit will undoubtedly be a boon for the team. For Little, this move represents a new challenge and an opportunity to further develop his skills. The support and trust placed in him by Middlesex are a testament to his talent and hard work, and fans and teammates alike are eager to see what he can achieve in his new home.
