England recall Surrey pair Ollie Pope and Dan Lawrence for Pakistan Tests
England have recalled Surrey pair Ollie Pope and Dan Lawrence to their 16-man squad for the first two Tests against Pakistan, beginning at Headingley on 19 August.
The upcoming three-match series marks a new era for the national side following the retirement of captain Ben Stokes and the departure of head coach Brendon McCullum.
Joe Root will lead the team for the first time since his reappointment in July, supported by interim coach Marcus Trescothick.
Stephen Fleming is set to take permanent charge later this year when the side faces South Africa in December.
Lawrence rewarded for prolific domestic form
The 29-year-old batter earns his return to the international setup after an outstanding County Championship campaign.
He has amassed 788 runs at an average of 65.66 in Division One this season, including five centuries across 13 innings.
The right-hander is expected to bat at number six, filling the middle-order void left by the legendary former captain.
While he provides part-time off-spin, having taken nine domestic wickets this season, he represents a distinct shift in style from the dynamic all-rounder he replaces.
Pope returns as injured Bethell misses out
Former vice-captain Pope finds his way back into the fold after being dropped during the recent series against New Zealand.
The talented stroke-maker previously lost his place at number three to Jacob Bethell during the Ashes following a sustained dip in form.
However, Bethell will miss the entirety of the Pakistan series after suffering a knee injury during the white-ball tour of India in July.
Jordan Cox is now set to slot in at number three for the hosts, having made his red-ball debut at the Oval against the Black Caps.
Selectors balance youth and experience
Men’s national selector Marcus North emphasised the need to blend emerging talent with seasoned professionals against a dangerous touring side.
“Dan Lawrence returns following an exceptional season so far with Surrey and we believe he has the right level of experience, maturity and skill to complement our middle order.”
“Jordan Cox is well regarded as one of the most exciting talents in English cricket and will have the opportunity to bat at three in place of Jacob Bethell, who sadly misses this series through injury.”
Essex seamer Sam Cook has also earned a recall to the 16-man group for the first time since last summer.
The full squad features a robust bowling attack, including the returning Jofra Archer alongside Gus Atkinson and Shoaib Bashir.
England squad for the first two Tests against Pakistan:
- Joe Root (c)
- Jofra Archer
- Gus Atkinson
- Shoaib Bashir
- Harry Brook
- Brydon Carse
- Sam Cook
- Jordan Cox
- Ben Duckett
- Matthew Fisher
- Emilio Gay
- Dan Lawrence
- Ollie Pope
- Ollie Robinson
- Jamie Smith
- Josh Tongue