England Announced Test Squad Against Pakistan

LONDON: Joe Root will begin his second spell as England’s Test captain against Pakistan after selectors named a 16-member group for the opening two matches of the three-Test series. 

In this Test squad against Pakistan, Root takes charge after Ben Stokes stepped away from international cricket, with England turning to a combination of established names and emerging players for the upcoming series. The opening Test will be played at Headingley from August 19, followed by the second match at Lord’s.

One of the biggest changes comes in the batting order, where Jordan Cox has been given the opportunity to occupy the No. 3 position. The move follows Jacob Bethell’s absence after the all-rounder suffered a knee injury during England’s ODI series against India and requires a longer recovery period.

Cox’s inclusion adds another opportunity for a player regarded among England’s promising young batters. His only Test appearance came against New Zealand earlier this summer, while his previous chance to enter the side was delayed after he suffered a finger injury before England’s tour match in 2024.

Dan Lawrence’s return is another major feature of the squad. The Surrey batter forced his way back into contention after a productive County Championship season, scoring 788 runs in Division One at an average of 65.66. His ability to bowl off-spin also gives England flexibility following Stokes’ retirement.

The pace department has also been strengthened with Brydon Carse returning after recovering from wrist and elbow injuries. Sam Cook has been recalled after making his Test debut against Zimbabwe, while Ollie Robinson keeps his place after his strong performance against New Zealand at Lord’s.

Ollie Pope has been selected as reserve wicketkeeper-batter after losing his place during last winter’s Ashes series. Rehan Ahmed misses selection, while Sam Curran was considered but was not included after an injury-affected summer.

England announced Test squad details ahead of the series, with the third Test scheduled at Edgbaston from September 9 to 13 after matches at Headingley and Lord’s.

England Squad for 2 Tests Against Pakistan

Joe Root (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Jamie Smith and Josh Tongue.

National selector Marcus North said the squad was designed to provide a balance between experience and developing talent.

"We have selected a squad for the first two Tests that balances rising talent with the experience needed against a quality Pakistan team," North said.

"Dan Lawrence returns following an exceptional season so far with Surrey and we believe he has the right level of experience, maturity and skill to complement our middle order."

"Jordan Cox is well regarded as one of the most exciting talents in English cricket and will have the opportunity to bat at No. 3 in place of Jacob Bethell, who sadly misses this series through injury."