Rehan Ahmed has played down expectations of retaining his place for England’s T20 World Cup semi final despite his decisive contribution against New Zealand in Colombo.
The 21 year old made his tournament debut and struck with his first delivery, later scoring 19 not out in a tense chase alongside Will Jacks. England selected him for turning conditions, while the semi final in Mumbai is expected to offer a truer surface.
“I’m not too bothered about my place in the team,” said Ahmed, who became England’s youngest men’s Test cricketer in 2022.
“Baz [coach Brendon McCullum] and Brooky [captain Harry Brook] will definitely put out the best team they think is going to win, as they did [against New Zealand].
“It’s not a personal thing for me – it’s a World Cup, it’s my first World Cup to be in.
“I’ll just keep enjoying the ride, if I get the nod I’ll play and if not then I’ll give water to the boys.”
Against New Zealand, Ahmed altered the momentum late in the innings by striking his second ball for six. He added a reverse sweep for four off Mitchell Santner and cleared long off for another six, allowing England to win with three balls remaining and complete the Super Eights unbeaten.
Discussion over his place in the semi final has followed, with England likely to face India or West Indies. Conditions at the Wankhede Stadium have produced more balanced returns between pace and spin than those in Colombo. Without Jamie Overton available, England would rely on Jofra Archer and Sam Curran as their primary seam options.
Ahmed’s contribution with the bat has prompted suggestions he could feature in the top seven. He has opened only once in T20 cricket, for Leicestershire against Northamptonshire in 2023. His most frequent position has been number three, currently occupied by Harry Brook, with further appearances at seven and eight. Elevating Tom Banton or Jacob Bethell to open and repositioning Ahmed would represent a significant selection shift.
With the ball, Ahmed returned 2/28, dismissing Rachin Ravindra and Cole McConchie. Data from CricViz recorded nine Rashid deliveries missed or edged compared with two from Ahmed, with Rashid maintaining stronger length control. Selection over Liam Dawson would alter England’s balance.
Ahmed debuted in Test cricket at 18 and has featured regularly in England white ball squads, though opportunities have been limited by Adil Rashid’s position as first choice leg spinner. He has played 13 of England’s 53 T20 internationals since his debut.
“I just want to make an impression whenever I do get the chance,” Ahmed said.
“I know the team balance right now is great and that’s why we are where we are.
“I’m very easy. I was very, very happy when I did get the chance to try and win a game for England, not for me personally, just to win a game.”
