England recall Lawrence, Carse, Pope, Cook for Pakistan tests with Bethell ruled out
England has announced its 16-man cricket squad for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan, featuring the recall of Dan Lawrence and the inclusion of several new players due to injuries. The series marks the beginning of a new era for the team following the departure of Ben Stokes.
Why it matters
The squad selection is critical for England's international cricket standing as they attempt to rebuild their batting lineup and manage player fitness.
Dan Lawrence was recalled by England after two years on Thursday (August 6, 2026) to play in the first test against Pakistan and Jacob Bethell was ruled out of the three-match series by a right knee injury.
The post-Ben Stokes era starts in Leeds on Aug. 19 and Surrey batting allrounder Lawrence will have the first crack at trying to fill the prodigious shoes of the former test captain.
He is set to bat at No. 6 with wicketkeeper Jamie Smith likely to slot in one place lower down, while Bethell being sidelined has opened the door for Jordan Cox at first drop in the batting order.
Cox's own injury misfortune meant he made his test debut only in June against New Zealand at The Oval, where he was down at No. 7.
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