England have named Somerset’s highly rated wicketkeeper-batter Thomas Rew as captain for the forthcoming Under-19 World Cup, which will be staged across Zimbabwe and Namibia in January and February. The 18-year-old will be at the helm of a really strong squad of England in this edition of the global youth tournament.
Thomas Rew Returns After Missing Caribbean Tour
Thomas Rew returns to the Under-19 setup after missing England’s recent tour of the West Indies, where the team lost by a margin of 5–2 in that series. His absence was due to commitments with the England Lions, who were touring Australia at the same time.
Rew, 18, made his first-class debut just earlier this month in the Lions’ clash with Australia A, hitting 19 and then 47. He actually had already played for Somerset at senior level during the last English summer while still just 17, underlining how fast he has risen through the ranks.
Record-Breaking Talent and Family Connection
Rew is the younger brother of James Rew, also a wicketkeeper-batter who is touring with the England Lions. Yet Thomas, 19, was preferred with the gloves at Allan Border Field in front of his 22-year-old brother
He made headlines earlier this year by breaking the record for the fastest England Under-19 century, reaching the milestone off just 73 balls against India in June, an innings that further cemented his reputation as one of England’s brightest prospects.
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Farhan Ahmed Named Vice-Captain
Nottinghamshire offspinner Farhan Ahmed has been named vicecaptain for the Under-19 World Cup. He had led the side when they toured the Caribbean last year and brings in leadership experience into the squad. Farhan is also the younger brother of England international Rehan Ahmed, adding another notable family link within the team.
England Squad largely unchanged for Under-19 World Cup
There are no surprises in the squad of 15, which retains the core of the group that has taken part together regularly at Under-19 level. There’s just one newcomer to the party: Leicestershire left-arm spinner Ali Farooq, who is yet to make his Under-19 debut but has nevertheless impressed selectors.
Coach Mike Yardy Confident of Strong Campaign
Head coach of England Under-19 Mike Yardy spoke of his optimism ahead of the Under-19 World Cup in his interview, speaking about the balance and unity that exist within the squad.
He added that many of the players have already gained county experience and built good chemistry, while such experience may come in handy during the pressure of a World Cup tournament. Yardy also called upon the players to make the most of this opportunity to compete on the world arena and show their talent there.
Group and Opening Fixture of England
The Under-19 World Cup has placed England in Group C, where they will face Pakistan, Scotland, and hosts Zimbabwe. They will start their campaign against Pakistan on January 16 at the Takashinga Sports Club in Harare.
England Men’s Under-19 World Cup Squad
Thomas Rew (capt), Farhan Ahmed (vice-capt), Ralphie Albert, Ben Dawkins, Caleb Falconer, Ali Farooq, Alex French, Alex Green, Luke Hands, Manny Lumsden, Ben Mayes, James Minto, Isaac Mohammed, Joe Moores, Sebastian Morgan
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