Ahmed, a product of the Leicestershire academy, made his first appearances for the senior team as a 16-year-old in last summer’s Royal London Cup, when he made his debut against Yorkshire, and went on to average 44.50 with the bat and take five wickets in a seven-game stint.
His development took a further step in September, with his call-up for England’s Under-19 series against West Indies, after which he was included in their World Cup plans for this winter’s tournament in the Caribbean. He claimed 12 wickets in four innings, including his match-defining spell in the semi-final against Afghanistan, in which he turned the tide of the match with three wickets in an over. England went on to lose the final by four wickets to India.
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“I am delighted to extend my contract at the club and can’t wait to represent the Running Foxes again during the summer,” Ahmed said. “The past year has been incredible for me. From making my Leicestershire to debut to playing in a World Cup final, I have learned so much and I am extremely grateful to everyone who has helped me on my journey so far.”
Leicestershire CCC Director of Cricket, Claude Henderson, said: “It is exciting to have Rehan onboard to help achieve our long-term ambitions. We want to give him the best opportunity to develop his game and contribute to winning games for Leicestershire. He has shown a first-class attitude, along with the level of skill and hunger we want to be associated with.”
Ahmed’s Leicestershire career began at Under-15 level, once producing match-winning 134 not out alongside four wickets in 10 overs against Derbyshire’s U18s. Last summer he also named in the County Select squad which played against India at Chester-le-Street in July.
In addition to his contract extension, Ahmed was picked up by the reigning Hundred champions Southern Brave in this year’s draft.
Source: ESPN Crickinfo