Shafiqullah Ghafari Signs Contract Extension with Durham for 2027

Shafiqullah Ghafari, a leg-spin bowler for Durham, has signed a one-year contract extension that will keep him with the club until the end of the 2027 season.

The 24-year-old contributed significantly to Durham's performance in the 2026 One-Day Cup, making 10 appearances and achieving his best bowling figures of 4-36 against Lancashire. He finished the season as the leading wicket-taker for the club in the competition with a total of 16 wickets.

Originally from Afghanistan, Ghafari also played for Richmondshire in the North Yorkshire and South Durham Premier League, where he took 65 wickets in 23 matches. He expressed his enjoyment of being part of the team and his hope to continue contributing across all formats next season.