Why Was James Rew Called Up to England's Test Squad?
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Synopsis
James Rew has made headlines with his first call-up to the England Test squad, replacing injured Jordan Cox. As the young talent prepares for his debut against Zimbabwe, his remarkable County Championship performance raises expectations. Will Rew shine on the international stage? Discover the details of his journey and what lies ahead!
Key Takeaways
- James Rew makes his debut in the England Test squad.
- Rew replaces Jordan Cox, who is injured.
- The Test match against Zimbabwe starts on May 22.
- Rew has a strong County Championship record, averaging 54.71.
- He is the youngest English player to reach 10 first-class centuries since Denis Compton.
London, May 8 (NationPress) James Rew of Somerset has received his first-ever call-up to the England Test squad for the upcoming one-off match against Zimbabwe, stepping in for Jordan Cox, who is sidelined due to an abdominal muscle injury.
The 21-year-old Rew has been exceptional this County Championship season, boasting an impressive average of 54.71, and will now serve as the reserve batter for the squad.
According to a statement from the England and Wales Cricket Board on Thursday, "James Rew has been incorporated into the England Men’s Test squad in anticipation of the upcoming Rothesay Test match against Zimbabwe, commencing at Trent Bridge on May 22. Rew will join the Test squad during their pre-series training camp next week, marking the beginning of preparations for the international summer."
Cox, who was initially selected but missed his Test debut over the winter due to a thumb injury sustained during England’s tour of New Zealand, faced another unfortunate setback last weekend. While competing for Essex against Somerset in Taunton, he injured his side while running a single on 99 and had to retire shortly after reaching his century.
Scans have confirmed his unavailability for the Zimbabwe Test, continuing his streak of unfortunate incidents, including a broken finger during The Hundred in August 2023 that necessitated surgery.
Meanwhile, Rew showcased his talent in that same match with a pivotal fourth-innings century that enabled Somerset to chase down 321. This performance made him the youngest English player since Denis Compton to achieve 10 first-class centuries. A promising wicketkeeper-batter, Rew has been on England’s radar since he excelled in the 2022 U19 World Cup, where he made a top score of 95 in the final.
In the same year, he scored his first Somerset hundred and has had a breakout 2023 season, accumulating 1,086 County Championship runs at an average of 57.15, including five centuries. His white-ball skills are equally impressive, with two List A centuries and an unbeaten 62 in only his second T20 match during last season’s Vitality Blast semi-final. He has also been a consistent performer for the England Lions.
The England squad is set to gather in London this weekend for a training camp at Loughborough before heading home briefly ahead of the first Test, which is scheduled to start at Trent Bridge on May 22.
Point of View
I believe that James Rew's call-up is a significant opportunity for both the player and the England team. His outstanding form in the County Championship and impressive track record suggest he is well-prepared for this challenge. This move not only showcases England's commitment to nurturing young talent but also reflects the team's adaptability in the face of injuries. The cricket community eagerly anticipates how Rew will perform in this crucial match against Zimbabwe.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is replacing Jordan Cox in the England Test squad?
James Rew is replacing Jordan Cox, who is out due to an abdominal muscle injury.
When will the Test match against Zimbabwe start?
The one-off Test match against Zimbabwe is scheduled to begin on May 22 at Trent Bridge.
What has been James Rew's performance in the County Championship?
James Rew has been in excellent form, averaging 54.71 in the County Championship season.
How did Jordan Cox sustain his injury?
Jordan Cox sustained his abdominal injury while running a single on 99 during a match against Somerset.
What are James Rew's notable achievements?
James Rew is the youngest English player since Denis Compton to record 10 first-class centuries and has been a standout performer in the U19 World Cup.
