Jordan Cox has made a compelling case for his continued inclusion in the England Test cricket team following his measured and resilient innings during the second Test against Pakistan at Lord’s. The 24-year-old batter, who stepped in due to Jacob Bethell’s knee injury, scored 55 runs while stabilizing England’s innings in challenging conditions on a pitch that offered significant seam movement.

Cox faced early pressure as England lost three wickets swiftly, with Pakistan bowler Mohammad Abbas claiming three of them. However, Cox responded by adopting a patient and adaptable approach, accumulating runs primarily through singles and dot balls while respecting the bowler’s threats. His innings included a cautious 27 runs before lunch, followed by methodical additions during the afternoon session. He ultimately fell early in the final session caught in a one-handed effort by substitute fielder Salman Agha, but not before guiding England’s score past 240.

This composed performance has drawn comparisons to Jonathan Trott, England’s most accomplished No. 3 batter in the past quarter-century, and has been seen as a return to a more traditional, steady style that helped England thrive in earlier eras under players like Alastair Cook and Andrew Strauss. Analysts have noted that Cox’s adaptability and temperament stood in contrast to the aggressive “Bazball” approach often employed in recent years under former coaching strategies. Many observers suggested his innings demonstrated what some have described as “Bazball with brains,” highlighting a blend of grit and tactical restraint.

The Test No. 3 position has been notoriously difficult for England at Lord’s in recent years, with batsmen at that spot averaging just 22.55 runs since 2017—a sharp decline from the previous decade’s 46.08 average. Only Ollie Pope has scored more than 73 in that role at this venue over the past ten seasons, emphasizing the significance of Cox’s contribution.

Cox’s rise has been underpinned by his previous first-class experience, including opening the batting for Kent—where he scored an unbeaten 238 against Sussex in 2020—and his time with Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League. While questions have been raised about his vulnerability to short-pitched bowling, those familiar with his game highlight his excellent hand speed and positive attitude. Speculation that he might take on wicketkeeping duties has subsided after teammate Jamie Smith posted his best Test score in a year in the same innings.

Looking ahead, the selectors face decisions about the composition of England’s top order, particularly regarding the roles of Cox and Bethell. Both have prospects of forming a stable top three alongside Ben Duckett. Cox’s greater experience opening in first-class cricket and preference for pace bowling could make him a candidate to open alongside Duckett on England’s upcoming tour to South Africa. Cox’s adaptability and application may provide England with the solidity that has been sought since struggles in the previous international season, including the Ashes.

Veteran figures in English cricket have praised Cox’s technique and temperament. Graham Gooch, who addressed the England players ahead of the Test, remarked that Cox’s fifty was “worth a hundred” given the conditions. As England prepare for their winter tour, Cox’s performance at Lord’s suggests he is likely to be a key figure in the team’s attempt to re-establish consistency at the top order.