LEICESTER — Teenage sensation Rehan Ahmed delivered what he described as the "game of my life" as his all-round heroics propelled Leicestershire to a thrilling County Championship victory over Derbyshire, keeping their promotion hopes alive in Division Two.
The 19-year-old leg-spinner claimed a staggering 13 wickets in the match — including career-best figures of 7/89 in the second innings — while also smashing a crucial 110 with the bat, his maiden first-class century. His performance earned him universal acclaim, with cricket pundits calling it one of the finest all-round displays in recent County Championship history.
A Match-Defining Performance
Ahmed’s brilliance came at a pivotal moment for Leicestershire, who are locked in a tight promotion battle. After Derbyshire posted 319 in their first innings, Ahmed’s 6/75 helped restrict their lead. But it was his second-innings demolition — ripping through Derbyshire’s batting lineup with 7/89 — that turned the game on its head.
Speaking after the match, an elated Ahmed said: "I’ve never had a game like this before. To take 13 wickets and score a hundred — it’s the best I’ve ever played. I just tried to stay patient with the ball and back my skills."
Key Moments of the Match
Ahmed’s performance was packed with standout moments:
- A devastating spell on Day 3, where he took four wickets in just 11 overs.
- His century, scored at No. 8, included 12 fours and 3 sixes, rescuing Leicestershire from 180/6.
- The final wicket — a sharp leg-break that bowled Derbyshire’s last batsman — sealing a 78-run win.
A Star in the Making
Ahmed, who became England’s youngest men’s Test debutant at 18, has long been tipped for greatness. His latest performance only reinforced his reputation as one of cricket’s most exciting young talents. Leicestershire coach Alfonso Thomas praised his maturity: "Rehan’s skill is undeniable, but his composure under pressure is what sets him apart. He’s a match-winner."
Former England captain Michael Vaughan tweeted: "Rehan Ahmed is special. To dominate a game like that at 19 is ridiculous. England have a gem."
Promotion Push
The victory keeps Leicestershire firmly in the hunt for promotion, sitting just 12 points behind second-placed Sussex. With three matches remaining, Ahmed’s form could be decisive. Captain Lewis Hill acknowledged: "Rehan won us this game single-handedly. If he keeps this up, we’ve got a real shot."
Derbyshire, meanwhile, were left stunned. Their coach, Mickey Arthur, admitted: "We had no answer to Rehan. He was unplayable at times. That’s as good a performance as I’ve seen in county cricket."
What’s Next?
Ahmed’s display has reignited calls for his inclusion in England’s Test squad for the upcoming winter tours. With England’s spin options under scrutiny, his ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a compelling choice.
For now, though, Ahmed remains focused on Leicestershire’s promotion bid. "I just want to keep performing and help the team get to Division One," he said. "That’s the goal."
With performances like this, Ahmed’s career trajectory seems limitless. As one local fan put it: "We’re witnessing something special. Remember the name — Rehan Ahmed."