Rashid draws a line under Ashes talk
England’s veteran leg-spinner Adil Rashid has made it clear that his Test career is over, shutting down any speculation about a return for this winter’s Ashes series.
Speaking to reporters in Cardiff on Tuesday ahead of the opening T20 against South Africa, Rashid said:
“It would be a no. I think I’m quite comfortable and confident of what I have been doing for the past seven years. I’ve finished red-ball cricket, so I’m quite confident in my own game in that sense. I’m sure It wouldn’t even come that way because the spinners coming through now are very good. When they go there they’ll put good performances in, and I’m confident they’ve got the spinners sorted.”
Rashid, who last played a Test in 2019, said he is focused solely on white-ball formats and believes the next generation of spinners can step up.
Aiming to extend his career
Now 37, Rashid continues to be one of England’s most reliable white-ball performers. He took eight wickets at an average of nine in the recent ODI series against South Africa and shows no signs of slowing down.
Asked about his longevity, he replied:
“I am going all right at the moment. I like to take it a game at a time, a day at a time and not look too far ahead in terms of World Cups in years to come. Just let things unfold and nature take its course. You do have the age factor in the back of your mind about getting to 40, 41, but who knows what can happen in one, two, three years’ time? You want to play cricket for as long as possible, as long as the body can hold and you are performing to a certain level. If am well, I will try my best. Hopefully, if I keep performing, I can carry on.”
Backing Rehan Ahmed’s progress
Rashid also praised rising star Rehan Ahmed, who has impressed with both bat and ball in domestic competitions this summer.
“I wouldn’t say something has clicked, it’s just the older you get, you become experienced and start to know your game a bit more. That is what has started to happen in certain situations batting and bowling. When you are performing well, you get the confidence, go out there freely and let the talent shine. He works hard in the nets as well and when he does get that chance for a longer period he will flourish.”
Rashid’s endorsement underlines the confidence England’s senior players have in their younger counterparts as they plan beyond this winter.
Looking ahead
Rashid’s stance makes it clear he has closed the door on Test cricket, but his performances and leadership in white-ball formats remain vital for England. With his sights set on playing well into his 40s, the veteran spinner will continue to be a cornerstone of England’s white-ball ambitions while helping groom the next generation.
