The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced a 15-player squad for the second Test against New Zealand, with former captain Joe Root set to lead the side in the absence of Ben Stokes. The match is scheduled to begin on June 17 at The Oval, with Root taking over captaincy duties on an interim basis following the omission of Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson from the squad amid an ongoing investigation into an alleged breach of team protocols.
Squad Details
The squad includes Joe Root (captain), Harry Brook (vice-captain), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, James Rew, Ollie Robinson, Jamie Smith and Josh Tongue. A major boost for England comes with the return of Jofra Archer and Jordan Cox, both of whom have been added to the squad ahead of the crucial second Test. Archer's inclusion strengthens England’s pace attack, while Cox provides additional batting depth.
Investigation and Captaincy
The ECB confirmed that Stokes and Atkinson were unavailable for selection as inquiries continue into an incident that reportedly occurred after England’s opening Test victory over New Zealand. Joe Root, who previously captained England in 64 Tests, will once again lead the side as they look to maintain momentum in the series. England will aim to build on their strong start to the series when they face New Zealand in the second Test beginning June 17.
