Rishi Patel to Leave Leicestershire CCC After the 2026 Season

Rishi Patel has announced that he will leave Leicestershire County Cricket Club (LCCC) after this season, bringing an end to six successful years with the club.

Wearing number 26, Rishi has been a standout player during his time at the club since joining initially on loan in August 2020 before signing permanently ahead of the 2021 season, significantly contributing to the team's achievement of becoming Division 2 Champions last year.

This season, Rishi scored 164 runs against Surrey in the Rothesay County Championship, narrowly missing his career-best score of 179 runs, which he set against Glamorgan at Sophia Gardens.

During his time with the Foxes, Rishi helped secure two trophies - the Metro Bank One Day Cup in 2023 and the Rothesay County Championship Division Two crown in 2025.

While Rishi is eager to seek new challenges, he admitted that it is with a heavy heart that he makes this decision.

He stated, "I will be forever grateful to LCCC for the opportunity and support they have given me - they made me believe in myself.

"Time flies, and six years have passed quickly, filled with countless unforgettable moments at the club. At this juncture, I have decided to make a change, but Leicestershire CCC will always hold a special place in my memories.

"It was a tough decision to make leaving a club that gave me an opportunity to play professional cricket. It feels that now is the right time for me to move on at this stage in my career.

"I have loved my time here as a Fox and couldn’t be more grateful for all the support I have had. Thank you to the coaches that bought me here and to the coaches that have helped me develop and that have backed me throughout the years. Thank you to all the support staff that go unnoticed your help has not gone under the radar.  We have 3 months to keep fighting, & I will be trying my hardest to keep the Club in Division 1, to win the 50 over cup, and make some more great memories."

Claude Henderson, Director of Cricket, commented, "For six years, Rishi has been part of our journey. He has continuously learned and has been a significant contributor to our success over the years.

"If Rishi has decided to explore other options, I accept that - it’s a part of life. He is determined to finish the season strong, and I look forward to seeing him flourish."

Leicestershire CCC would like to thank Rishi for his contributions and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavours.