England’s limited-overs squad for the upcoming tour of the West Indies has a fresh face, Jafar Chauhan, a 22-year-old uncapped leg-spinner, who could make his debut in the series starting on October 31. Chauhan’s inclusion in the squad, led by captain Jos Buttler, marks a significant moment for the young cricketer who has impressed with his bowling skills, despite not yet playing a List A match.
Jafar Chauhan’s Cricket Journey
Jafar Chauhan’s path to the England team is both inspiring and unique. He is the first graduate from the South Asian Cricket Academy (SACA) to make it to the national squad. Chauhan, originally from the Yorkshire cricket system, played in the Middlesex Academy during his teenage years. Although he didn’t get a chance in Yorkshire’s senior team, he made a name for himself playing for Berkshire in the National County League in 2022, helping his team secure a title in the 50-over tournament.
His impressive performances in the academy earned him opportunities to bowl against top players from the England national team and county Second XI squads. Notably, Chauhan even dismissed Joe Root and Ben Duckett during practice sessions, which caught the attention of selectors. Despite having only 23 T20 matches under his belt, where he picked up 22 wickets, Chauhan has quickly emerged as a player to watch in the upcoming series against the West Indies.
The Role of South Asian Cricket Academy (SACA)
Chauhan’s rise is also a testament to the success of the South Asian Cricket Academy, which aims to address the under-representation of British South Asians in professional cricket. SACA has been instrumental in giving talented players like Chauhan the platform they need to showcase their skills and gain recognition. His inclusion in the national squad highlights the positive impact of such initiatives in diversifying the sport in England.
England’s Squad for West Indies Tour
The England squad for the West Indies tour includes a mix of experienced players and fresh talent. Jos Buttler returns to captain the team after recovering from a calf injury, with seasoned players like Jofra Archer, Sam Curran, and Adil Rashid bolstering the lineup. Meanwhile, Jafar Chauhan will be looking to make a strong debut as England takes on West Indies in three ODIs and five T20 matches.
England Team for West Indies Tour:
Jos Buttler (captain), Jofra Archer, Jacob Bethel, Jafar Chauhan, Sam Curran, Will Jaques, Liam Livingstone, Saqib Mahmood, Dan Mousley, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Reece Topley, John Turner.
West Indies vs England Tour Schedule
- 1st ODI: Antigua, October 31
- 2nd ODI: Antigua, November 2
- 3rd ODI: Barbados, November 6
- 1st T20: Barbados, November 9
- 2nd T20: Barbados, November 10
- 3rd T20: Saint Lucia, November 14
- 4th T20: Saint Lucia, November 16
- 5th T20: Saint Lucia, November 17
