LONDON — Rehan Ahmed, the young England leg-spinner, has revealed that his competitive backyard cricket rivalry with younger brother Farhan will resume after their recent T20 Blast clash, where the siblings faced off for the first time in professional cricket.
Brothers on Opposite Ends in T20 Blast
The Ahmed brothers made history when Rehan, playing for Leicestershire Foxes, bowled to Farhan, representing Derbyshire Falcons, in a thrilling T20 Blast encounter at Grace Road. Though Farhan was dismissed for just 5 runs, the match marked a significant milestone for the family. "It was surreal," Rehan admitted post-match. "We’ve played hundreds of games in the garden, but this was different—proper cricket, with a crowd watching."
A Friendly Yet Fierce Sibling Rivalry
The brothers, born just two years apart, have always shared a competitive streak. Their father, Naeem Ahmed, a former club cricketer, nurtured their talent by turning their backyard into a training ground. Rehan, now an established England international, recalled: "We used to play for hours, arguing over decisions, trying to outdo each other. Farhan was always the better batter, but I had the spin."
Farhan, 18, has been making waves in Derbyshire’s youth setup and earned his T20 debut this season. While Rehan got the better of him this time, Farhan is determined to even the score. "Next time, I’ll smash him," he joked after the match.
From Backyard Battles to Professional Cricket
The Ahmed brothers’ journey from backyard cricket to the professional stage is a testament to their dedication. Key moments in their development include:
- Early Training: Their father’s rigorous drills, including bowling with a tennis ball to improve reflexes.
- County Pathways: Rehan joined Leicestershire at 13, while Farhan progressed through Derbyshire’s academy.
- International Dreams: Rehan debuted for England at 18; Farhan aims to follow suit.
Rehan, who became England’s youngest men’s Test debutant in 2022, believes Farhan has the talent to reach the top. "He’s got everything—technique, temperament. It’s only a matter of time," he said.
What’s Next for the Ahmed Brothers?
With both brothers now in the T20 Blast, fans can expect more sibling showdowns. Rehan hinted at future clashes: "We’ll definitely have a rematch in the garden. Maybe even a wager—loser does the dishes for a week."
Their story has drawn comparisons to other cricket siblings, like the Marsh brothers (Shaun and Mitchell) and the Currans (Sam and Tom). However, the Ahmeds’ journey is unique—rooted in humble beginnings and a shared love for the game.
Conclusion: A Rivalry That Inspires
The Ahmed brothers’ friendly rivalry is more than just a personal battle—it’s a celebration of family, hard work, and cricket’s unifying power. As Rehan put it: "At the end of the day, we push each other to be better. That’s what brothers do."
With Farhan’s career on the rise and Rehan already an England star, their backyard battles may soon extend to international cricket. For now, fans can enjoy watching two talented siblings compete—on the field and, undoubtedly, in their garden.