Somerset’s highly rated wicketkeeper-batter Thomas Rew has been named captain of England’s Under-19 squad for the upcoming World Cup, set to be held in Zimbabwe and Namibia in January and February.
Rew, 18, missed England Under-19s’ recent tour of the West Indies, where the side suffered a 5-2 series defeat, due to his involvement with England Lions in Australia. He made his first-class debut for the Lions against Australia A earlier this month, scoring 19 and 47, having already represented Somerset over the summer while still 17.
The young wicketkeeper-batter is the younger brother of James Rew, another promising talent who featured on the Lions tour. However, Thomas was chosen to take the gloves at Allan Border Field. He also holds the record for the fastest century by an England U-19 player, a 73-ball effort against India in June.
Joining him as vice-captain is Nottinghamshire offspinner Farhan Ahmed, younger brother of England international Rehan Ahmed, who had previously led the side in the Caribbean. The 15-player squad remains largely unchanged, with uncapped Leicestershire left-arm spinner Ali Farooq being the sole new inclusion.
Head coach Mike Yardy expressed confidence in the squad’s balance and experience. “This is a fantastic opportunity for the players to represent England at a World Cup and to do something special,” he said. “We have a balanced squad with county experience and a core group that has developed camaraderie, which will serve them well throughout the tournament.”
Yardy also emphasized the importance of enjoying the experience. “I want the players to embrace the chance to play at a World Cup in a beautiful country like Zimbabwe, compete against different nations, and showcase their talent,” he added.
England have been drawn in Group C alongside Pakistan, Scotland, and hosts Zimbabwe. Their campaign will kick off against Pakistan at the Takashinga Sports Club in Harare on January 16.
The squad includes a mix of experience and youthful talent, designed to provide both stability and excitement in key positions. Rew’s leadership, combined with Ahmed’s guidance as vice-captain, is expected to bring a strong tactical edge to the team.
Other squad members include Ralphie Albert, Ben Dawkins, Caleb Falconer, Ali Farooq, Alex French, Alex Green, Luke Hands, Manny Lumsden, Ben Mayes, James Minto, Isaac Mohammed, Joe Moores, and Sebastian Morgan.
With a talented core of county-experienced players and a promising leadership duo, England Under-19s will aim to make a significant impact on the global stage, blending youthful exuberance with strategic cricketing acumen.
