Rehan Ahmed set to enter IPL auction with England backing

12/21/2022

But while that route was under discussion, with one eye on developing Ahmed’s red-ball skills ahead of a potential role in next summer’s Ashes, the decision was made to keep him in the frame for a contract with the Pakistan Super League no longer being considered.

One change was made to his IPL status, with his base price rising from around £40,000 to an elevated £50,000 following his eye-catching debut in Karachi, but his name was never withdrawn from the bidding shortlist.

Although Ahmed had only played three first-class matches for Leicestershire before his Test bow, the current England regime have taken a relaxed view on such matters.

Liam Livingstone was also picked for the Pakistan tour and handed a debut in Rawalpindi despite operating as a white-ball specialist for most of the last two years.

With captain Ben Stokes heading back into the auction hopeful of landing a bumper deal having missed the previous edition to focus on his leadership of the Test team and key players like Jonny Bairstow, Jofra Archer and Mark Wood all cleared for IPL duty, Ahmed’s potential participation would be unlikely to count against him in future selection.

Head coach Brendon McCullum, who has worked extensively in the IPL as player and coach, is also well aware of the possible benefits.

Speaking to BBC’s Test Match Special this week, he said: “It would be awesome if he did. I’ve been involved with the IPL a couple of times so sometimes it works out for guys and sometimes it doesn’t. Why not?

Rehan Ahmed set to enter IPL auction with England backing

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