Rehan Ahmed Returns as England Faces Pakistan in Decider

Two years ago, Rehan Ahmed became England's youngest men's Test cricketer during a match in Pakistan.

Rehan Ahmed has been recalled by England as one of three frontline spinners for the decisive Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi. The 20-year-old leg-spinner replaces Matthew Potts and Brydon Carse in the lineup after England’s loss in the second Test. Ahmed will join Shoaib Bashir and Jack Leach in a three-pronged spin attack while Gus Atkinson and captain Ben Stokes will lead the pace bowling.

Harry Brook emphasized the need to adapt to the pitch conditions, stating that it likely won’t swing or seam significantly during the first session. Ahmed made his international debut against Pakistan two years ago, becoming the youngest player to represent England in Test cricket at 18. He impressed with a 5-48 performance in his debut match, making him the third-youngest player to achieve a five-wicket haul on debut.

He has since earned four caps with his last appearance against India in February. Brook praised Rehan Ahmed as an “outstanding cricketer,” highlighting not only his bowling but also his batting and fielding abilities. After Pakistan leveled the series 1-1 in Multan where spinners Noman Ali and Sajid Khan claimed all 20 wickets, the pressure is on England to secure a series win. England had a successful trip to Pakistan two years ago, winning the series 3-0.

Brook, who scored England’s first triple-century in 34 years in the first Test of that series expressed excitement about the upcoming match. He recalled his memorable performances in Rawalpindi and stated, “It’s like a final,” as he aims to contribute significantly to England’s quest for victory. The team looks to replicate past success, hoping to secure their second consecutive series win in Pakistan.

Cataleya