Jamie Smith Out, James Rew In: England Confirm Major Change For 2nd Test vs New Zealand

James Rew, the wicket-keeper-batter for Somerset, will make his Test debut against New Zealand in the second Test at The Oval after Jamie Smith has been withdrawn from the squad following the birth of his second child.

 

This change sees England line up with three debutants in the same Test side, with Rew joining Jordan Cox and Sonny Baker who will also be representing England for the first time in this series. The home side have also made five other changes to the side that won the opening Test at Lord's.

 

The ECB announced the news on Tuesday evening: "Uncapped wicket-keeper-batter James Rew has been called into the England Men's XI for the second Rothesay Test against New Zealand in place of Jamie Smith. Smith has been withdrawn from the Test match following the birth of his second child earlier today enabling him to remain with his partner and family."

 

Rew Rewarded For Strong County Form

 

The 22-year-old has become one of the most consistent batters on the domestic circuit in the last few seasons, since the start of the 2023 County Championship campaign, Rew has scored 11 first-class centuries and become one of England's bright young talents.

 

He was called up to the England Test squad for the first time last year and has continued to impress with both bat and gloves. He is expected to bat at six in the order and also to keep wicket during the fixture.

 

His rise has been well documented and noted among the England cricket circuit and with brother, Thomas Rew being lauded as a potential future international player having captained England to this year's U19 World Cup final.

 

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