James Rew Set to Join England Squad for Training Camp

Somerset’s rising batting star, James Rew, has received an invitation to join the England Test squad. This development follows an injury sustained by Jordan Cox.

The 21-year-old Rew, recognized for his impressive form in the current County Championship, is expected to participate in a training camp next week. The camp serves as preparation for the anticipated Test match against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge, scheduled to commence on May 22.

Rew’s Recent Performances

Rew’s performance this season has been noteworthy, evidenced by his average of 54.21 in the County Championship, including a highest score of 152. His consistent displays have garnered attention at the national level.

Rew, who previously represented England in the Under-19 squad that reached the final of the 2022 U19 World Cup, also toured Australia with the England Lions during the past winter. This tour provided him with significant exposure to international playing conditions.

Injury Sidelines Jordan Cox

In contrast, Jordan Cox, aged 24, suffered an unfortunate injury during Essex’s recent County Championship match against Somerset.

Before his injury, Cox had been performing strongly, scoring 82 against Nottinghamshire and 117 against Surrey, before retiring hurt on 103 against Somerset.

Having previously missed a potential Test debut last November due to a thumb injury, this recent setback is a significant disappointment for the promising batter.

Cox’s inclusion in the squad was as a reserve batter; however, his injury has now created an opportunity for Rew, who is keen to capitalize on this unexpected chance.

England aims to leverage the Zimbabwe Test to build momentum ahead of their five-Test series against India, set to begin on June 20 at Headingley.

The forthcoming match at Trent Bridge will mark Zimbabwe’s first Test appearance in the UK since 2003, signifying a historic return after over two decades.

England’s Updated Test Squad:
  • Ben Stokes (Durham) – captain
  • Gus Atkinson (Surrey)
  • Shoaib Bashir (Somerset)
  • Harry Brook (Yorkshire)
  • Sam Cook (Essex)
  • Zak Crawley (Kent)
  • Ben Duckett (Nottinghamshire)
  • Ollie Pope (Surrey)
  • Matthew Potts (Durham)
  • James Rew (Somerset)
  • Joe Root (Yorkshire)
  • Jamie Smith (Surrey)
  • Josh Tongue (Nottinghamshire)