England have announced Test call-ups for three uncapped players—Thomas Rew, Emilio Gay, and Sonny Baker—ahead of the opening Test against New Zealand in Christchurch, starting November 28. The trio have been added to the squad as cover for the senior players, with the selectors looking to build depth in the squad for the three-match series.
Thomas Rew: Wicketkeeper-Batter
Thomas Rew, a 23-year-old wicketkeeper-batter from Somerset, has been in impressive form in the County Championship. He has scored 789 runs at an average of 46.41 in the 2024 season, including two centuries and five half-centuries. His ability to keep wickets and bat in the middle order makes him a valuable addition to the squad. Rew has been a consistent performer for Somerset and has also represented England Lions in the past.
Emilio Gay: Opening Batter
Emilio Gay, a 24-year-old left-handed opening batter from Northamptonshire, has earned his maiden Test call-up after a string of strong performances in domestic cricket. Gay has amassed 1,024 runs in the 2024 County Championship at an average of 51.20, with four centuries. His technique against the new ball has been praised by coaches, and he is seen as a potential long-term option at the top of the order for England.
Sonny Baker: Fast Bowler
Sonny Baker, a 21-year-old fast bowler from Somerset, has been called up to the Test squad for the first time. Baker has taken 41 wickets in the 2024 County Championship at an average of 22.73, showcasing his ability to generate pace and bounce. He has been a key part of Somerset's bowling attack and has also impressed for England Under-19s. His inclusion provides cover for the pace attack, with James Anderson and Ollie Robinson being managed for workload.
England Squad for First Test
The England squad for the first Test includes: Ben Stokes (captain), Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Jonny Bairstow, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, James Anderson, Ollie Robinson, Jack Leach, and the three new call-ups—Thomas Rew, Emilio Gay, and Sonny Baker. The match is scheduled to begin on November 28 at Hagley Oval, Christchurch.
England's selection committee, led by Rob Key, has emphasized the importance of building a strong bench for the future. "These three players have shown exceptional form and deserve this opportunity. They add depth to our squad and provide options as we look ahead to a busy schedule," Key said in a statement.
The New Zealand series marks the beginning of a new cycle for England, with the team aiming to rebuild after a mixed run in Test cricket. The inclusion of young players like Rew, Gay, and Baker signals a shift towards nurturing talent for the long term.
