England’s multi-format stars return to the Test side after missing the two-match Test series against New Zealand earlier this summer. Hameed makes a comeback to the Test side after almost five years. Ollie Robinson has also been included in the side.
England have picked a 17-man squad for the first two Test matches against India. The multi-format stars like Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Jonny Bairstow and Sam Curran have made a return to the squad. The latter three had missed the two-match Test series against New Zealand earlier in the summer as they had returned from the IPL and were rested. Stokes seems to have completely recovered from his finger injury and returns to the side.
Haseeb Hameed, who made his Test debut back in 2016 and played three Test matches in India, has earned a recall. The 24-year-old opening batsman has been in fine form in the County Championship – scoring 642 runs at an average of 45.85, which includes two tons and four half-centuries. Hameed was added as batting cover during England’s Test series against New Zealand in June.
Ollie Robinson also returns to the squad after missing the second Test against New Zealand. He was suspended for his historical tweets, but he can now resume his career after the investigation came to a close. He picked up seven wickets in his debut Test match against New Zealand at Lord’s.
Jofra Archer continues to remain absent due to his elbow injury. Meanwhile, Chris Woakes has also missed the cut as he has a bruised heel, but the seam-bowling all-rounder is likely to be fit for the remainder of the series.
“A home Test series against India is one of the most anticipated red-ball series and this promises to be an outstanding five Tests.
India are a quality team who have shown their ability to get results away from home.
We are expecting a highly competitive series and have selected our strongest possible squad,”
England’s head coach Chris Silverwood was quoted saying.
The first Test starts on the 4th of August at Trent Bridge. The following Tests are scheduled to take place at Lord’s, Headingley, Kennington Oval and Old Trafford. England’s head coach Chris Silverwood expects the upcoming five-match Test series against India a very competitive one.
