In preparation for the upcoming five-Test series against India, England has unveiled a 16-man squad featuring three uncapped players. Among the fresh faces is Surrey seamer Gus Atkinson, who joins left-arm spinner Tom Hartley and off-spinner Shoaib Bashir in the squad.
The spin department sees a mix of experience and recall, with the return of senior left-arm spinner Jack Leach and leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed. Leach, who was absent during the Ashes earlier this year, is back in action, providing valuable experience to the team.
Meanwhile, Rehan Ahmed, who made his Test debut against Pakistan in Karachi last year, marks his return to red-ball cricket for England.
The squad is led by the dynamic Ben Stokes, who had to make strategic moves after Jack Leach’s absence in the Ashes led to the recall of all-rounder Moeen Ali from retirement. The team’s spin options have been further strengthened with the inclusion of Rehan Ahmed alongside the seasoned Jack Leach.
Left-arm spinner Tom Hartley and off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, both yet to make their international appearances, add an element of excitement and promise to the squad. Their inclusion highlights England’s commitment to nurturing young talent and building a well-rounded team for the challenges ahead.
The five-Test series against India, scheduled between January and March, promises to be a test of skill and strategy for the English side. With a blend of experienced players and emerging talent, England aims to put forth a formidable challenge and secure success on the Indian subcontinent.
England Test squad: Ben Stokes (c), Rehan Ahmed, James Anderson, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes, Tom Hartley, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Mark Wood