England has announced a 16-man squad for the first two Test matches of their series against Pakistan, scheduled to begin at Headingley on August 19 and continue at Lord’s eight days later. This series marks a new chapter for England in the post-Ben Stokes era, following the all-rounder’s recent retirement from international cricket.

One of the most notable selections is Surrey’s Dan Lawrence, who returns to the Test side for the first time since September 2024. Lawrence is expected to bat at number six and adds experience and batting depth amid the void left by Stokes. His inclusion follows an impressive County Championship season, where he has led Division One run-scoring with 788 runs, including five centuries at an average hovering around 65. Lawrence’s part-time off-spin may offer some bowling variation, though with premier spinner Shoaib Bashir retained, England are likely to field a four-pronged seam attack in the opening Test, reflecting a more pace-heavy approach.

Jacob Bethell, who had established himself at number three in the batting order since last winter’s Ashes series, is unavailable due to a knee injury sustained during England’s one-day series win over India. Bethell’s injury rules him out of the entire Pakistan series and leaves a significant gap in the top order. Essex batsman Jordan Cox, who made his Test debut at number seven in June during England’s series loss to New Zealand, has been promoted to number three. Despite limited Test experience, selectors express confidence in Cox’s ability to handle the crucial role. Cox, who generally bats at number four for Essex and has opening experience, is described as a determined competitor with strong character.

The squad also features the return of former vice-captain Ollie Pope, brought in primarily as a backup for both batting and wicketkeeping duties. Pope had lost his place to Bethell but has regained form for Surrey this season, averaging above 56 in the County Championship. His inclusion reflects a balance of youth and experience as well as leadership qualities amidst a relatively youthful lineup.

England’s pace bowling department has seen the recall of Brydon Carse, returning from a hand injury that sidelined him since the Ashes, and Sam Cook, who has one Test cap. Other seamers in the squad include Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Josh Tongue, Ollie Robinson, and Matthew Fisher, with Robinson’s participation potentially affected by personal circumstances. The selectors and management are prepared for scheduling challenges, given the close proximity of The Hundred final and the Test series start.

National selector Marcus North acknowledged that Sam Curran was strongly considered as Stokes’ successor but remains sidelined due to fitness concerns. The emphasis is on fielding the strongest possible batting lineup while maintaining adequate bowling options. North noted the importance of selecting players not simply to replace Stokes but based on their readiness and suitability for Test cricket.

New England Test head coach Stephen Fleming, who will take charge from the winter tour of South Africa onwards, was involved in the selection discussions alongside interim head coach Marcus Trescothick and captain Joe Root. Fleming’s influence is expected to ensure continuity in team philosophy moving forward.

Overall, the squad selection suggests a return to rewarding strong domestic form, with a focus on building a balanced team capable of competing against a quality Pakistan side. The squad will look to end a two-year wait for a Test series victory when the matches get underway later this month.

England squad for first two Tests: Joe Root (captain), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Ed Garton, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue.