Surrey look well placed to reclaim the title after their runner-up finish last season, while all eyes are on promotion for Lancashire. The County Championship 2026 season promises excitement across both divisions.
Essex, who finished sixth in Division One, have made prudent signings including Zaman Akhter from Gloucestershire and Mitchell Killeen from Durham to bolster their bowling attack. Captain Tom Westley will rely on Charlie Allison after a fabulous 2025, though Jordan Cox will miss the early part of the season due to the Indian Premier League. They are predicted to finish sixth.
Glamorgan return to Division One after 20 years, led by captain Kiran Carlson. The young squad faces a challenge without Sam Northeast, but Ben Kellaway and Asa Tribe had breakout seasons. Australian Ryan Hadley joins for the first six games, while James Harris has retired. They are predicted to finish eighth.
Hampshire, saved from relegation last season, crave stability under new coach Russell Domingo. Jake Lehmann bolsters the batting, while Kyle Abbott continues at 38. Codi Yusuf replaces Jayden Seales, who was refused a No Objection Certificate by Cricket Trinidad & Tobago. They are predicted seventh.
Leicestershire, promoted as Division Two champions, face a tougher season after the late withdrawal of Peter Handscomb. Jake Weatherald joins early, and Stephen Ezkinazi, Jonny Tattersall, and Josh Davey add depth. Rehan Ahmed will need another magical summer. They are predicted tenth.
Nottinghamshire, the reigning champions, have boosted fast-bowling stocks with the return of Fergus O’Neill and Mohammad Ali. Captain Haseeb Hameed will need to be in the runs again, while Ben Duckett’s decision to turn down his IPL gig is a huge fillip. They are predicted third.
Somerset, who finished third last season, have young batters with experience now. The Rew brothers, Josh Thomas, and Archie Vaughan spent the winter with the Lions. Craig Overton and Lewis Gregory lead the seam attack, with Jack Leach and Vaughan as spinners. This could be their sweet spot year before England come calling. They are predicted second.
