Rehan Ahmed has insisted he is “not too bothered” about retaining his place in England’s T20 World Cup semi-final after a match-winning cameo against New Zealand. The 21-year-old leg-spinning all-rounder was called into the side for the final Super 8 match on a slow, turning wicket in Colombo, taking two for 28 and scoring a rapid 19 not out off seven balls to help England snatch victory.
Ahmed’s performance has given head coach Brendon McCullum and captain Harry Brook a selection dilemma ahead of the semi-final, likely against India or the West Indies. They must decide whether to stick with Ahmed or bring back fast bowler Jamie Overton, or even play both, which would mean dropping a batter such as the out-of-form Jos Buttler.
“I’m not too bothered about my place in the team,” Ahmed said. “I think Baz and Brooky will definitely put out the best team they think is going to win. I just want to make an impression whenever I do get the chance. 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.”
England’s victory over New Zealand came after they needed 42 runs off the last 17 balls. Ahmed hit a six off his second delivery and another off Mitchell Santner before Will Jacks sealed the win in the final over. “I went out there with no intentions of looking at the scoreboard,” Ahmed said. “It was trying to hit three or four sixes, I got two away and Jacksy did the rest.”
England have lost only twice under Brook’s captaincy in 18 T20s, a remarkable record. They will discover their semi-final opponent after results in the other pool on Sunday.
