Somerset head coach Jason Kerr has expressed strong support for James Rew to open the batting for England in the upcoming Test series this summer. Following England’s heavy 4-1 defeat in the Ashes in Australia, changes to the batting line-up seem inevitable, and Rew, the promising Somerset wicketkeeper-batsman, is emerging as a leading candidate to step up.
Current openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett have struggled significantly in recent matches. Crawley has managed only 60 runs in four County Championship innings for Kent this season, while Duckett has scored just 26 in his single outing for Nottinghamshire. In stark contrast, 22-year-old Rew has amassed over 300 runs so far, ranking second only to England’s incumbent wicketkeeper-batsman Jamie Smith.
Although Rew has primarily batted at number four for Somerset, Kerr highlighted his adaptability and potential at the top of the order. After Rew’s impressive score of 86 in Somerset’s first innings against Hampshire, the coach said, “Could he do that at the top of the order for England? Absolutely.”
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Kerr also acknowledged the need to balance team strategy while ensuring Rew’s pathway to international cricket remains clear. “It is in my head,” Kerr said when asked if Rew could open for Somerset. “But we have to do what is right for the team. I don’t want to compromise his opportunity of playing for England. He’s scoring consistently, and the way he does it shows he could succeed as an opener.”
With the England team looking for fresh options at the top, Rew’s form and versatility make him a compelling contender to fill the opening slot in the Test side.