Amrit Basra Signs with Derbyshire – Becomes SACA’s 14th Graduate

We are delighted to announce that Amrit Basra has signed a professional contract with Derbyshire County Cricket Club for the Metro Bank One Day Cup, becoming the 14th graduate of the South Asian Cricket Academy (SACA) men’s programme.

This is a moment of particular pride for everyone involved at SACA, as Amrit has been with us from the very beginning — a member of our original 2022 cohort, and a consistent example of what it means to commit to the process, trust the journey, and deliver at every level.

From Early Promise to Relentless Production

Amrit’s cricketing pedigree was established early. A former England U19 international and product of the Northamptonshire Academy, he arrived at SACA with a strong foundation and a hunger to break through into the professional game.

From the outset, he stood out — not just for his all-round ability, but for his leadership, professionalism, and presence on and off the field.

Over the past three seasons, Amrit has become one of the most respected and reliable performers across the 2nd XI circuit. In 2024 and 2025 alone, he has scored over 2,000 runs, including five centuries, while contributing consistently with the ball and in the field.

Leading From the Front

Amrit's contribution to SACA extends far beyond the stat sheet. In March 2025, he captained the SACA squad on our pre-season tour to Abu Dhabi, leading the team against a series of County 1st XI sides.

Under his leadership, SACA delivered a series of standout performances, including a win over Essex 1st XI and a strong showing against Somerset in T20 cricket. In the latter fixture, Amrit led from the front with a composed and match-shaping half-century against a full-strength Somerset side.

Whether with bat, ball, or captaincy — Amrit consistently sets the standard.

Amrit (captain) Adeel (Keeper) in training - Abu Dhabi

The Long Road and the Right Club

Through SACA’s support network, Amrit earned trial opportunities with Kent, Gloucestershire, and Derbyshire, impressing coaches and staff at every turn. His all-round skill set, work ethic, and tactical awareness made him a standout candidate — but it was Derbyshire CCC who made the bold and deserved call to offer him a professional opportunity.

Amrit has now signed with Derbyshire for the 2025 Metro Bank One Day Cup, a testament to both his current form and his long-term potential. The full announcement from the club can be found here:🔗 Derbyshire CCC announcement

A Word from SACA

“No one deserves this more than Amrit. He’s been here since day one and has bashed the door down with his performances and professionalism over several seasons. A model pro in how he works and operates — Derbyshire have got a really good one here.”— Dr. Tom Brown, Founder & MD, South Asian Cricket Academy

Amrit’s story is a brilliant example of how consistent output, patience, and attitude eventually get rewarded. He is also a reminder that some players don’t need to be reinvented — they simply need to be seen, trusted, and given the chance.

Looking Ahead

Now entering a high-performance environment with Derbyshire, Amrit will have the opportunity to contribute immediately in white-ball cricket while continuing to develop his game further. He brings experience, balance, and a strong leadership presence to the squad — and we’re confident this will be the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

From the whole team at SACA, we want to say congratulations, Amrit. We’ve been proud to walk alongside you on this journey — and we’re even prouder to see you take this next step.