England’s journey in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 hit a snag with the unfortunate news of Brydon Carse bowing out of the tournament. Carse, who’s been battling a persistent toe injury, had to call it quits following England’s clash against Australia. The match, held on February 22, ended in a stinging five-wicket loss for England, and Carse’s painful struggle was evident in his expensive bowling, giving away 69 runs in just seven overs. Despite his best efforts to soldier on, his condition raised serious fitness concerns.
Carse’s troubles began earlier during England’s white-ball series in India where a blister on his left foot significantly hampered his performance, causing him to miss the last two ODIs. Though he gamely tried to push through in the Champions Trophy, the injury proved too stubborn to ignore. Missing the training session on February 24 was the final straw, and medical assessments confirmed he couldn’t continue.
As the tournament progressed, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) moved swiftly to address Carse’s absence. They introduced young leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed into the squad, a decision that the ICC Event Technical Committee has given the green light. Ahmed steps in with just six ODIs to his name but has already shown promise. His prowess in the spin department is a welcome boost, especially alongside veteran Adil Rashid. Ahmed’s record includes 10 wickets at an average of 23.3, and he made headlines with a sensational five-wicket haul during his Test debut against Pakistan in 2022.
Now, with England’s semi-final dreams hanging by a thread, they’re staring at a must-win scenario. After the opening setback against Australia, their path to the semis demands victories in their remaining group matches against Afghanistan and South Africa. Carse’s absence certainly leaves a gap in their pace lineup, but Rehan Ahmed’s ability to exploit subcontinental pitches might just be the edge they need. Still, it’s going to take a combined effort across all fronts for England to revitalize their prospects and stay in the race for the semi-finals.
