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3d ago

England Name 16‑Man Test Squad as Cox Moves To No. 3

Selectors have chosen extra pace and batting depth over a specialist spin option to cover the multi‑role vacancy created by Ben Stokes' retirement.

On the latest episode of Wisden Cricket Weekly Podcast, Cameron Ponsonby and Mark Butcher discuss England’s squad for the first two Tests against Pakistan.
Following Dan Lawrence's recall to England's Test squad this week, Mark Butcher has labelled the decision to use him as the sole spinner in England's XI as 'nonsense'.
The major question facing England in the three Test series they will play before next summer’s Ashes is how to replace Ben Stokes in their XI.
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Overview

  • The selectors announced a 16‑player squad on August 6 for the first two Tests against Pakistan, with the series beginning at Headingley on August 19 and the second Test at Lord's later in August.
  • Jacob Bethell was ruled out with a right‑knee injury, prompting Jordan Cox to be promoted to the pivotal No. 3 position despite limited first‑class experience at that spot.
  • Dan Lawrence earned a recall after a strong County Championship season and is expected to bat at No. 6 while providing part‑time off‑spin rather than serving as a front‑line specialist bowler.
  • Sam Curran was left out of the opening two Tests because of fitness concerns but national selector Marcus North described him as 'a player of interest' for the third Test if he proves fully fit.
  • Former players and commentators have questioned using Lawrence as primary spin cover, arguing the choice highlights the wider challenge of replacing Stokes' combined batting, seam and spin influence and that the series will test the new balance under Joe Root's restored captaincy.