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England Names 13-Man Squad for Zimbabwe Test, Including Two Uncapped Essex Players

Ben Stokes is confirmed fit to captain, while an inexperienced bowling attack steps in due to injuries.

Overview

  • Essex seamer Sam Cook and batter Jordan Cox have been called up for potential Test debuts in the one-off match against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge from May 22-25.
  • Ben Stokes, recovering from hamstring surgery, is set to lead the squad but may not bowl to manage his fitness ahead of a busy summer.
  • The pace attack includes newcomers Cook, Gus Atkinson, Josh Tongue, and Matthew Potts, addressing the absence of Mark Wood, Chris Woakes, and others due to injuries.
  • Zak Crawley and Shoaib Bashir retain their spots despite recent struggles with form, reflecting the selectors' continued faith in their potential.
  • This four-day Test marks England and Zimbabwe's first meeting in the format since 2003 and serves as preparation for a five-Test series against India starting in June.