England recall Cook, Ollie Pope for Pakistan Tests; Joe Root to lead
England has announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan, with Joe Root returning as captain. The squad features several recalls and adjustments following the retirement of Ben Stokes.
Why it matters
The squad selection marks a transitional period for English cricket as they attempt to balance their team composition without a primary all-rounder.
England have named a 16-member squad for the first two Tests of the three-match series against Pakistan, which begins later this month and is part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship cycle.The squad marks the start of a new phase for England after the retirement of Ben Stokes and the departure of head coach Brendon McCullum.Ollie Pope, Dan Lawrence and Sam Cook have all returned to the Test squad, while Jordan Cox is also back and is expected to bat at No. 3, according to The Guardian. Cox gets the opportunity after Jacob Bethell was ruled out of the series with an injury.England are coming into the series after losing to New Zealand and will now begin life under returning captain Joe Root and interim head coach Marcus Trescothick.Root, who was reappointed Test captain in July, will lead England for the first time since returning to the role.
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