After a terrific comeback from 1-0 down to winning the series 2-1 against West Indies, England have named an unchanged squad for the upcoming first Test against Pakistan. The first of three-match series commence from August 5 (Wednesday) at Old Trafford in Manchester.
The three lions have retained all the six fast bowlers, who were a part of series against West Indies. Dom Bess continues to be the lone spinner in the side while Jack Leach continues to wait in the fringes as a cover-up.
England announce squad for Pakistan Test
Meanwhile, England have left out Joe Denly, who didn’t feature in the second and third Test owing to poor performances. Speaking on the squad, national selector Ed Smith said that they have named an unchanged squad for the three Tests against Pakistan.
“After three Tests in quick succession against the West Indies, we now turn to an equally condensed Test series against Pakistan, with 15 days of Test cricket scheduled in a three-week period. Our 14-man squad is unchanged,” Smith said.
Meanwhile, the management has allowed the 18-member squad to join their families straight after the end of the third Test against West Indies. They will rejoin on August 2 (Sunday); three days ahead of the first of three Tests against Pakistan.
Moreover, with the County cricket starting this weekend, the management might look up to some of the reserves during the Test series. Gloucestershire’s James Bracey and Essex’s Dan Lawrence will provide batting cover while Ben Foakes is the cover for the wicket-keeper.
