England has announced a new playing XI for their second Test match against New Zealand at the Oval, starting Wednesday, June 17. They lead the series 1-0 following a 115-run victory at Lord’s.
Off-field issues have arisen after their win, particularly involving captain Ben Stokes. He and teammate Gus Atkinson violated team curfew and were involved in a nightclub incident, leading to their suspension for the Oval Test. Joe Root will step in as the interim captain.
With Stokes and Atkinson unavailable, along with Ollie Robinson’s injury, England has made four changes to the team. Fast bowler Sonny Baker and wicketkeeper-batter Jordan Cox are set to make their debuts.
Jofra Archer returns after missing the first Test, and Matt Fisher, who played his only Test in 2022, is also back in the squad. The Oval pitch does not require frontline spinners, so Root and Jacob Bethell can serve as part-time spinners instead of the benched Shoaib Bashir.
In batting, Emilio Gay remains in the team after scoring a half-century on his debut at Lord’s, while Cox replaces the suspended Stokes.
Additionally, there may be one more change before the match. Wicketkeeper Jamie Smith’s partner is expecting their second child, and James Rew is on standby to take his place if needed. This could lead to as many as three debutants for England in the second Test.
England XI for Second Test vs New Zealand:
Emilio Gay, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root (C), Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (WK), Jordan Cox, Jofra Archer, Matt Fisher, Josh Tongue, Sonny Baker