Three weeks into the county cricket season, Somerset's James Rew is emerging as a compelling contender for England's Test squad, presenting selectors with a strategic dilemma ahead of the New Zealand series.
The 22-year-old left-hander has amassed 379 runs in five innings, passing fifty four times and scoring a century against Nottinghamshire in the opening match. With 12 first-class hundreds already to his name—matching Zak Crawley's career total—Rew's early-season form is impossible to ignore.
"Rew is said to be a tough character, with an old-fashioned approach to batting—happy to occupy the crease if the situation demands," noted cricket analysts. "A hint of modern flair comes through his willingness to play the reverse sweep."
The central question for England revolves around where to position him. With Crawley's opening spot appearing vulnerable, the most straightforward solution would be to slot Rew in at the top of the order. However, he has never opened in first-class cricket, though he has batted as high as number three and has limited experience opening in List A matches.
Somerset coach Jason Kerr has publicly backed Rew's potential, stating he "absolutely" could open for England. Those close to the young batter describe him as having the mental fortitude and technical foundation to succeed at international level.
England could follow Australia's approach of selecting the best players first and determining batting order later. The team previously experimented with non-specialist opener Dan Lawrence 18 months ago with disappointing results, making them cautious about asking Rew to debut against New Zealand's formidable bowling attack.
An alternative would involve reshuffling the middle order, though positions four through six appear locked with Joe Root, Harry Brook, and captain Ben Stokes. Jamie Smith's early-season form for Surrey suggests he'll retain his place despite a challenging Ashes series.
Rew may get an opportunity to audition as an opener during England Lions' fixtures against South Africa A in May. Looking further ahead, his younger brother Thomas could take over wicketkeeping duties for Somerset after completing his A-levels this summer, potentially freeing James to move up the batting order.
As England contemplates their post-Ashes rebuilding phase, James Rew's compelling county performances have created a selection puzzle that will test the strategic thinking of the national team's decision-makers.