England has made changes to their lineup for the second Test against New Zealand, as wicketkeeper Jamie Smith will be absent. He is with his family following the birth of his daughter on June 16.
In the first Test at Lord’s, Smith scored 1 and 39 runs. England won that match by 115 runs, taking a 1-0 lead in the series. James Rew is set to make his Test debut at the Oval and will take over the wicketkeeping duties, according to England Cricket.
England Cricket announced on their X account, “Congratulations to Jamie Smith and his partner on the birth of their baby girl this morning. Also, a big cheer for James Rew on his Test debut and stepping in for Jamie. We wish you both all the best.”