Jordan Cox Replaces Bethell for Pakistan Tests: England have confirmed Jordan Cox as Jacob Bethell’s replacement for the opening two Tests against Pakistan, with the young batter set to take the No. 3 position in the three-match series.
Bethell was ruled out after suffering a knee injury during England’s recent ODI series against India, creating an opportunity for Cox, who made his Test debut against New Zealand in June.
The series will also mark a significant change in England’s leadership. Joe Root is set to captain the Test side on a permanent basis for the first time since 2022 after being reappointed to the role last month.
Root will lead the team alongside interim head coach Marcus Trescothick, with former New Zealand coach Stephen Fleming expected to take over after the Pakistan series.
Lawrence earns Test recall
Dan Lawrence has been brought back into England’s Test squad after last featuring in the format against Sri Lanka in 2024.
The 29-year-old has earned his recall following a strong County Championship campaign and is expected to bat at No. 6. His return adds further experience to an England batting lineup that includes Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Jamie Smith.
Cox, meanwhile, will have the chance to establish himself in the middle order after being handed an important role at No. 3.
Several familiar faces return
England have also welcomed back Brydon Carse and Ollie Pope, both of whom were absent from the Test setup following the team’s Ashes campaign in Australia earlier this year.
Sam Cook has retained his place after making his Test debut against Zimbabwe last year, while England have named a strong group of fast-bowling options.
Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Josh Tongue and Ollie Robinson are among the leading pace options, with Matthew Fisher also included in the 16-man squad.
The first Test is scheduled to begin at Headingley on August 19, giving England a fresh opportunity to build momentum under Root’s renewed captaincy.
England Test squad for Pakistan
Joe Root (captain), 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 and Josh Tongue.
