Cricket Transfers July 2025 Top Domestic Signings You Might Have Missed This Season

Hey cricket enthusiasts! It’s time to delve into a topic that doesn’t get as much love as it should, especially to be mentioned in the same breath as sixes and centuries – domestic transfers.

The month of July 2025 has certainly been a month of movin’ and shakin’ in the cricketing world from the turbulent domestic circuits. While the glossy international headlines grab the attention, these understated transfers can completely shift the narrative for a state team, franchise team or even a longer-term national call-up.

So, if you blinked and missed out on all the domestic movement, don’t stress – we got you. Here are the most significant (and surprising) domestic signings that slid under the radar during July.

1. Priyam Garg (from Uttar Pradesh to Vidarbha)

This was a shock to many. Priyam Garg, former India U19 captain, has officially transferred from Uttar Pradesh to Vidarbha for the 2025-26 season. Garg is a player who has showed glimpses of brilliance and has been after a fresh setup to have a reboot on his cricketing career.

We know Vidarbha is capable of developing consistent domestic players, which would be a promising environment for Garg. The coaching structure of the team has already developed sport coaching players like Faiz Fazal and Akshay Wakhare, so wouldn’t be surprised if Priyam finds his indulgence here and pushes back into the India A discussion.

2. Shahbaz Ahmed Returns to Bengal

After a brief stay with Tripura in 2024, Shahbaz Ahmed is back. Considered a genuine utility player who brings so much balance to any side, he has caused quite a stir in the Kolkata dressing room.

Ahmed’s role as a spin bowler and stabilizer at the lower order will elicit optimism for Bengal who have many senior players nearing retirement. Also, it just feels right, right? Shahbaz in Bengal whites feels like butter on warm toast; simple, yet satisfying.

3. Rahul Chahar Joins Chhattisgarh

Yes you read that correctly, leg spinner Rahul Chahar is moving from Rajasthan to Chhattisgarh. This left many of us unaware, but those in the know are saying this has been a calculated decision.

Chhattisgarh is making heavy investments in young spinners and they have a duff home pitch which is batting friendly. Chahar is also trying to work his way back into the national white ball set up, so considering his options of more overs, wickets, and more visibility, possibly Chhattisgarh may make some sense.

4. Karun Nair Signs with Baroda

The man with a triple-century in Test cricket, Karun Nair is determined to get this cricketing journey back on track. After a couple of modest seasons in Karnataka, Nair has moved across to Baroda where he will play a significant leadership role.

Will this be the move that reignites his Test aspirations? Maybe. Maybe not. But how can you not root for someone like this? He’s the sort of person you really want to get a second wind.

5. Tanush Kotian to Mumbai (Yes, Again)

Now this is an interesting one. Tanush Kotian was on a temporary last season with Goa, but after a decent Ranji Trophy season, Mumbai have called him back into the fold.

He will bring clever off-spin, a calm head, and an abundance of domestic experience for his age. The depth of Mumbai’s spin just improved – and I’ve no doubt Kotian is involved in some grand scheme.

What’s Behind These Transfers?

Good question. More likely than not, it’s about playing time. State teams like Rajasthan, Delhi or Karnataka can have stockpiles of talent. So, when a player is not being guaranteed consistent playing time or a leadership spot, a transfer to a less stocked state team is a wise move.

Then there’s the coaching situations, the chemistry in the locker-room, and of course, in some cases the opportunity to develop as a player without the pressures of staying where you grew up.

In case some were wondering if players actually get something out of possibly ‘losing/ruining’ their careers over transfers, the answer is a resounding yes. Kind of like shifting schools. Sometimes all you needed to shine was a different teacher and a new seat by the window.

A Personal Viewpoint – The Transfer I Never Stopped Thinking About

I personally love underdog stories, so Priyam Garg’s transfer resonated with me. I distinctly recall watching him captain the U19 squad, mentally cheering him on for his calm, calculated approach when playing for India. For whatever reason, he never garnered attention from the media after that tournament. Perhaps the expectations placed upon him after the tournament were substantial.

However, now watching him move into Vidarbha – a team that is known for its simplicity – gives me hope. It’s kind of like watching a friend start his life in a different city with a fresh job and a better boss. You just want him to do well.

So, What Does It Mean for Indian Cricket?

These transfers, while domestic, are the springboard for your next India stars. Every solid Ranji season, every gritty innings, every five-wicket haul – starts on this circuit. And transfers like this create the opportunity.

Just remember, even someone like Rishabh Pant only became a name once he dominated domestic cricket.

So, watch these names – one of these could be the buzz of the town next year.

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