England Recall Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope For First 2 Tests Against Pakistan; Jacob Bethell Ruled Out
· Free Press Journal
England have announced a 16-member squad for the first two Test matches against Pakistan with Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Brydon Carse and Sam Cook returning to the Test setup. The five-match Test series will begin at Headingley on August 19.
The biggest setback for England is the absence of Jacob Bethell, who has been ruled out of the entire Test series after suffering a right knee injury during the ODI series against India in July, 2026.
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Dan Lawrence Back After 2 Years
Dan Lawrence has earned a recall to the Test side after an impressive domestic season with Surrey. He is currently the second-highest run-scorer in Division One of the County Championship and is expected to bat at No. 6.
The 28-year-old last played a Test match in 2024 against Sri Lanka and now gets another opportunity to cement his place in the middle order.
Jordan Cox To Replace Injured Bethell
Jordan Cox, who made his Test debut against New Zealand, has been promoted to bat at No. 3 in place of the injured Bethell.
England's selectors have shown confidence in the young batter, who impressed during his first taste of Test cricket.
Pope, Carse And Cook Return
Ollie Pope and fast bowler Brydon Carse are back in the Test squad for the first time since Ashes series in Australia.
Seamer Sam Cook also returns after making his Test debut against Zimbabwe.
Meanwhile, Joe Root will captain England in a permanent role for the first time since 2022. The opening Test at Headingley will also be special for Root as it will be played at his home ground.
England Squad for First Two Tests vs Pakistan
Joe Root (Captain)
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
Josh Tongue
Selector Explains Squad Choices
England men's national selector Marcus North said that the squad combines experienced players with emerging talent ahead of the Pakistan series.
England Cricketer Sam Curran Takes Fiancé Isabella Grace To Wimbledon 2026 Finals Ahead Of IND Vs. ENG ODI SeriesHe praised Dan Lawrence for his excellent performances in county cricket and said his experience and form make him a valuable addition to the middle order.
North also backed Jordan Cox to succeed at No. 3, saying the youngster is one of England's brightest batting talents and deserves the opportunity to replace the injured Jacob Bethell.