February 25, 2025: England has suffered a significant setback in their Champions Trophy campaign as right-arm quick Brydon Carse has been ruled out of the tournament due to a toe injury.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed the news in a statement, revealing that Carse sustained the injury during England’s opening match against Australia in Lahore on Saturday.
Carse had been struggling with a toe issue, which initially began as a blister during England’s white-ball tour of India before the Champions Trophy. He required stitches for the injury and missed England’s final two ODIs against India. Despite being considered fit for the tournament opener, Carse struggled to find his rhythm and was the most expensive bowler in the match, conceding 9.85 runs per over as Australia chased down a massive 352-run target.
Carse’s injury worsened, and he was forced to miss England’s training session on Monday. As a result, the ECB confirmed that he would not participate in England’s upcoming matches in the Champions Trophy.
To replace Carse, the ECB has called up 20-year-old spinner Rehan Ahmed. Ahmed, who was part of England’s squad during their white-ball tour of India, has impressed with his spin bowling, picking up 10 wickets in five ODI appearances. His inclusion will strengthen England’s spin attack, which currently features Adil Rashid as the sole frontline spinner.
With Carse out of action, Jamie Overton is expected to be drafted into England’s playing XI as a like-for-like replacement, bringing in pace to bolster the team. Saqib Mahmood and Gus Atkinson are other pace options available in England’s 15-member squad.
England will look to regroup as they prepare for their next match in the Champions Trophy, which will be crucial in keeping their tournament hopes alive.