England have drafted Sussex pacer Henry Crocombe into their squad for the second Test against New Zealand as cover for Ollie Robinson, who is dealing with knee soreness ahead of the match at The Oval.
Robinson remains part of the squad but is scheduled to undergo precautionary scans after feeling discomfort during training on June 12. The injury concern comes just days after the fast bowler produced a match-winning performance in the opening Test at Lord’s.
Robinson a Doubt After Heroics
Making his Test comeback after nearly two years away from international cricket, Robinson was instrumental in England’s 115-run victory over New Zealand in the first Test. He claimed seven wickets in the match and was deservedly named Player of the Match.
His strong return had looked set to secure his place for the remainder of the series, but the knee issue has forced England to prepare contingency plans before the second Test begins on June 17.
Crocombe Earns First Senior Call-Up
The player brought in as cover is 24-year-old right-arm seamer Henry Crocombe, who has steadily built an impressive domestic record with Sussex.
Crocombe has played 47 first-class matches since making his debut in 2020 after progressing through Sussex’s age-group system. Known for his pace and aggressive style, he has also represented England Lions and recently featured in the squad for the One-Day series against South Africa A.
This marks his first call-up to England’s senior Test squad and could represent a major breakthrough in his career.
Archer and Cox Also Added
England had already strengthened their squad by adding Jofra Archer and Jordan Cox ahead of the Oval Test.
Archer returns after being rested for the first Test following his IPL commitments, while Cox provides additional batting depth and wicketkeeping cover.
The changes come during a turbulent period for England, with Joe Root taking over as stand-in captain for the second Test after Ben Stokes was ruled out amid an ongoing ECB investigation.
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England Aim to Seal Series
England lead the three-match series 1-0 after their convincing win at Lord’s and will be hoping to clinch the series at The Oval despite the disruptions surrounding the squad.
Whether Robinson is ultimately fit enough to play remains uncertain, but Crocombe’s inclusion ensures England have an extra pace option available if needed.
England Squad for Second Test
Joe Root (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Henry Crocombe, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, James Rew, Ollie Robinson, Jamie Smith and Josh Tongue.
As England prepare for the second Test, attention will focus not only on the series itself but also on Robinson’s fitness and whether Crocombe gets the chance to make his Test debut on one of cricket’s biggest stages.