Rehan Ahmed praises Stokes' respect for Friday prayers

Young leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed expressed gratitude to skipper Ben Stokes for his understanding and support towards him, Shoaib Bashir, and other practicing Muslims in the England men's team.

Recounting a conversation where they requested a day off for Friday prayers during a team outing in Abu Dhabi, Rehan praised Stokes for his immediate support and encouragement.

"I remember a time in Abu Dhabi where there was a team day out on a Friday. We had Friday prayers. Obviously, me and Bash [Bashir] were there. I messaged Wayno [Wayne Bentley], the team manager, asking if we could miss this day because we needed to pray.

"Stokes messaged me straight away and said 'come to me whenever you want about this kind of stuff, I understand it fully'. And yes he's stuck by his word,” Rehan told BBC Sport.

"Every time I pray he is so respectful, very understanding. Everyone is on this tour."

Rehan also acknowledged Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum for fostering a fearless environment, encouraging spinners to focus on attacking lengths rather than worrying about run flow.

"That just shows how great the team environment is. Tommy and Bash, you've seen them come in and not be nervous and that's credit to the team.

"They [Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum] just don't care about how bad things can go. It's always about what good you can get out of it.

"So if I bowl four bad balls and get a wicket, that's better than bowling 16 good balls in a row," Rehan added.