England drop Zak Crawley and name uncapped trio for New Zealand Test
England have dropped opener Zak Crawley and called up three uncapped players in a revamped 15-man squad for next month’s first Test against New Zealand.
The sweeping changes come as the national side prepares for their first red-ball action since a bruising 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia.
Managing director Rob Key has opted for a blend of established internationals and promising domestic talent to refresh the group.
Kent batter Crawley is the highest-profile casualty following a string of poor returns in the County Championship.
Robinson returns as uncapped trio get the nod
Sussex seamer Ollie Robinson has earned a recall to the senior setup for the first time since February 2024.
He is joined by Durham top-order batter Emilio Gay, who has been rewarded for prolific early-season domestic form.
Hampshire fast bowler Sonny Baker and Somerset wicketkeeper James Rew complete the cohort of fresh faces stepping up to international level.
Bowlers Rehan Ahmed and Matthew Fisher have also been drafted back into the fold by the selectors.
Archer absence explained
Fast bowler Jofra Archer remains unavailable for the series opener due to his ongoing Indian Premier League commitments.
The management team is prioritising a careful buildup of his red-ball workload following an extensive period travelling on the road.
Explaining the selection, Key highlighted the impressive domestic form of the new additions.
“Emilio, James and Sonny have all earned their opportunities through consistent performances and have impressed us not only with their talent, but with the way they’ve gone about their cricket in high-pressure situations.”
The managing director also expressed enthusiasm over the returning pace and spin options.
“It’s also great to welcome back players like Rehan, Matt and Ollie, who all bring different qualities and experience to the group.”
First Test squad in full
Ben Stokes will continue to captain the side when they convene for a training camp in Loughborough on May 24.
- Ben Stokes (Durham) – Captain
- Rehan Ahmed (Leicestershire)
- Gus Atkinson (Surrey)
- Sonny Baker (Hampshire)
- Shoaib Bashir (Derbyshire)
- Jacob Bethell (Warwickshire)
- Harry Brook (Yorkshire)
- Ben Duckett (Nottinghamshire)
- Matthew Fisher (Surrey)
- Emilio Gay (Durham)
- James Rew (Somerset)
- Ollie Robinson (Sussex)
- Joe Root (Yorkshire)
- Jamie Smith (Surrey)
- Josh Tongue (Nottinghamshire)