Yorkshire spinner Jafer Chohan has been named in the England squad for the upcoming tour of the Caribbean, marking a significant milestone for the 22-year-old cricketer. Chohan, who is a graduate of the South Asian Cricket Academy (SACA), will join the England team for the limited-overs series against the West Indies in October and November.
The squad announcement also includes the return of England captain Jos Buttler, who missed out on the recent white-ball series against Australia due to a calf injury. Alongside Chohan, uncapped players John Turner from Hampshire and Dan Mousley from Warwickshire have also been included in the 14-member squad for the Caribbean tour.
Chohan’s selection is particularly noteworthy as he only made his professional debut in May 2023 and has had a relatively short career so far, with just 23 T20 matches under his belt. Despite not having played a List A match yet, Chohan’s talent and potential have earned him a place in the England squad.
In a statement after his selection, Chohan expressed his excitement and gratitude, describing the opportunity to represent England as a dream come true. He highlighted his unique bowling style and expressed confidence in his abilities to contribute to the team and learn from experienced players during the tour.
Having spent time at Adil Rashid’s cricket centre and now playing alongside seasoned players like Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow at Yorkshire, Chohan believes that being in the England squad will further enhance his skills and cricketing knowledge. The young spinner is eager to make the most of this opportunity to learn and grow as a player.
While Buttler is set to lead the team in the Caribbean series, players like Harry Brook may also have a chance to join the squad depending on their availability after the Test tour of Pakistan. The England and Wales Cricket Board has confirmed that players who miss out on the Pakistan Test match may be called up to join the white-ball squad in Antigua.
Overall, Chohan’s selection in the England squad reflects not only his individual talent but also the success of programmes like SACA in nurturing young cricketers from diverse backgrounds. As the first SACA graduate to be selected for the England men’s team, Chohan’s inclusion signifies a positive step towards diversity and inclusivity in English cricket.
The England ODI and T20 squads for the West Indies tour include players like Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Adil Rashid, and others, with a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers set to take on the challenge in the Caribbean.
With a blend of youth and experience, the England squad will look to put on a strong performance in the upcoming series against the West Indies, with Chohan’s selection adding an exciting element to the team composition.