Glamorgan stalwart Chris Cooke set to hang up his gloves after 16 years


Glamorgan wicketkeeper-batter Chris Cooke has announced he will retire from professional cricket at the end of the 2026 season, ending a 16-year career with the county. Alongside the announcement, Glamorgan confirmed the re-signing of Pakistan left-arm seamer Mir Hamza. End of an Era: The 40-year-old Cooke will call time on his playing career following the conclusion of Glamorgan's County Championship Division One campaign—their first in the top flight in 21 years. 16 Years at Sophia Gardens: Cooke joined Glamorgan in 2010, later captaining the side from 2017 to 2019 and taking over the gloves full-time from Mark Wallace in 2017. Wallace, now Director of Cricket, hailed Cooke as the "best keeper-batter" in the county's history. Mir Hamza Returns: Glamorgan have bolstered their bowling attack for the final five matches of the County Championship by re-signing Pakistan fast bowler Mir Hamza. Hamza's Availability: Hamza previously played six matches for Glamorgan in 2024, taking 12 wickets. He will be available starting with Thursday's match against Leicestershire. Championship Position: Glamorgan currently sit fourth in Division One, just nine points behind leaders Nottinghamshire as they push for the title.