Leicestershire’s promising leg-spinner, Rehan Ahmed, has received a call-up to the England men’s squad for the upcoming second Ashes Test match.
The 18-year-old Ahmed, who made his Test debut in the previous winter against Pakistan in Karachi, impressed with a remarkable seven-wicket haul in his maiden appearance.
He has been included as cover for the spinning all-rounder Moeen Ali, who struggled with a finger injury during the gripping first Test that saw Australia clinch victory by a narrow two-wicket margin.
Scheduled to commence on Wednesday, 28 June, the second Test will take place at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Ahmed will join the rest of the squad in London over the weekend, bolstering the team’s roster to 17 players, with no dropouts following the conclusion of the first Test at Edgbaston.
His selection comes amidst concerns regarding Moeen’s fitness, as he made a return to Test cricket after Jack Leach was sidelined for the series due to a back injury.
During the second innings at Edgbaston, Moeen suffered a blister on his finger, which hampered his bowling performance and limited his contributions to England’s cause.
Reflecting on Ahmed’s remarkable debut, it is worth noting that he became the youngest English male cricketer to make his Test debut at the age of 18 years and 126 days against Pakistan in December.
In the same match, he achieved a remarkable five-wicket haul during Pakistan’s second innings, becoming the youngest male Test debutant to accomplish this feat.
England’s men’s Ashes squad for the second Test against Australia consists of the following players: Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood.
Analysis: Stephan Shemilt, Chief Cricket Writer at Sport News Center
Once again, England opts for a bold choice. While there were speculations about players like Will Jacks and Liam Dawson being potential replacements for Moeen Ali, Rehan Ahmed secures the opportunity after his thrilling debut in Karachi.
England remains hopeful that Moeen will recover in time to participate, as Brendon McCullum has expressed his intention to play if deemed fit.
If Moeen is unable to play, England could reduce the risk of fielding Ahmed by relying on Joe Root to contribute some controlled overs. Another option would be to field four seamers alongside Root.
The prospect of Ahmed taking the field at Lord’s is truly tantalizing. He would be the second-youngest player from either side to participate in a Test match between these two great rivals, and the youngest since 1877.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ashes Test
Who has been called up to the England squad for the second Ashes Test?
Leicestershire leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed has been added to the England men’s squad for the second Ashes Test.
How many matches has Rehan Ahmed played for England?
Rehan Ahmed has played one Test, one ODI, and two T20 matches for England.
What is the reason for Rehan Ahmed’s call-up?
Rehan Ahmed has been called up as cover for spinning all-rounder Moeen Ali, who struggled with a finger injury during the first Test.
When does the second Ashes Test start?
The second Ashes Test is scheduled to start on Wednesday, 28 June at Lord’s.
How old was Rehan Ahmed when he made his Test debut?
Rehan Ahmed made his Test debut against Pakistan in December at the age of 18 years and 126 days, becoming the youngest English male cricketer to do so.
Will Moeen Ali be fit for the second Test?
There are doubts over Moeen Ali’s fitness, but the team will give him as much time as possible to recover. Brendon McCullum has expressed his intention to play if Moeen is unable to.
What is the significance of Rehan Ahmed potentially playing at Lord’s?
If Rehan Ahmed participates in the second Test, he would be the second-youngest player from either side to play in a Test match between England and Australia and the youngest since 1877.
More about Ashes Test
- Rehan Ahmed’s Test debut performance
- England’s Ashes squad for the second Test
- Moeen Ali’s finger injury update
- Information about Lord’s Cricket Ground
- Record of youngest English male Test debutants
5 comments
lord’s is the perfect stage for a young talent like rehan ahmed to shine. can’t wait to see him in action. england selectors taking risks, but that’s what makes cricket exciting!
moeen ali’s finger injury caused trouble in the first test. good to see rehan ahmed called up as cover. england needs strong spin options against aus. go team!
wow rehan ahmed is in d squad for 2nd ashes test!! impressive stuff! hope he performs well like he did against pak last winter. fingers crossed!
spinners play a crucial role in test matches, and rehan ahmed has shown his potential. if moeen ali can’t play, it’s great to have ahmed as a backup. let’s hope he gets a chance to spin his magic!
interesting faqs! didn’t know rehan ahmed is the youngest english male cricketer to debut in tests. hope he continues to break records and becomes a future star. #TeamRehan