England's Test match hopefuls have been a topic of discussion, with Michael Atherton and Nasser Hussain weighing in on the impressive performance of James Rew in the County Championship. Rew has been the most prolific run-scorer in the country, but England's middle order seems set with Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, and Ben Stokes holding their spots, leaving Rew's best chance to open the batting for Somerset and challenge under-pressure batsmen Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett.
Rew's run-scoring in the Championship is only bettered by Jamie Smith, which could pose a challenge for England if he gets a call-up. Atherton and Hussain discussed Rew's prospects on the Sky Sports Cricket podcast, with Atherton stating that Rew is 'getting lots of runs and playing really well,' but the middle order is locked in.
Hussain noted that opening is a specialist position and Rew's ability to adapt will be crucial. The pair also discussed other County Championship performers, including Sonny Baker, Henry Crocombe, and Sam Cook, who have caught their attention ahead of Surrey vs Essex. Atherton believes that Sam Cook is a good bowler who should not be written off after one poor Test match and could be in his prime for the next two or three years.