Rehan Ahmed is a very rare talent, we’re aware he’s not a finished project: Ben Stokes

England Test skipper Ben Stokes spoke at length about the inclusion of youngster Rehan Ahmed in the squad for the Pakistan tour and mentioned how he is likely to be groomed in the upcoming series. The 18-year-old, who played for Leicestershire in the County Championship this year, is a spin bowling all-rounder and was part of the England squad in the U-19 World Cup.

He already has impressed in the County stint in which he picked up a five-wicket haul and scored a century to kickstart his career. No wonder, Stokes hailed the youngster for getting noticed quite early in his career which led up to his selection in the squad.

“We see him as one of those very rare talents, to have someone at such a young age be so noticeable with the way he bowls and the way he bats,” Stokes told as quoted by Sky Sports.

We’re fully aware Rehan’s not the finished project: Ben Stokes

Stokes noted that it was a good chance for the youngster to get used to the England dressing room and felt that he could be groomed in the meantime. He added that Rehan would be handed a Test cap if the need arises in the historic three-match series against Pakistan which starts on December 1.

“We saw it as a good opportunity to get him into the squad, around the group and into the environment. We’re fully aware he’s not the finished project and I think it’s important for his inclusion not to be looked into too much. We see this as an opportunity to get someone as talented as Rehan into the squad and nurture him. Who knows where he could be in two or three years’ time. I’m excited to have him in the squad, but if we feel we want to chuck him a Test cap, we’re in the position to do that,” he added.