Overview

• Zak Crawley and Shoaib Bashir are expected to keep their places in the squad despite recent struggles with form in domestic and international cricket.
• Essex seamer Sam Cook is likely to make his long-awaited Test debut after earning his first England call-up, bolstered by an impressive first-class record.
• Uncapped fast bowler Sonny Baker and batsman Jordan Cox are under consideration for the squad, though their roles may be limited to providing depth.
• England’s fast-bowling resources are stretched, with injuries sidelining Mark Wood, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes, and Brydon Carse, while Jofra Archer remains unavailable due to IPL commitments.
• The Zimbabwe Test is framed as a preparatory opportunity for England to assess squad dynamics and player readiness ahead of critical series against India and Australia.