ENG vs IND 2018: England Announce Squad For Second Test

England skipper Joe Root, on Wednesday, named a 12-man squad for the second England vs India Test starting at Lord’s on Thursday.

Root also confirmed that Ollie Pope would make his debut in the upcoming game. The 20-year old will bat at number four after replacing Dawid Malan from the side that won the first Test.

The England selectors sprung a big surprise by handing Pope his maiden Test call. The right-handed batsman earned the call after his excellent form for Surrey. He has scored 684 runs at an average of 85.50 which includes three centuries and a top score of 158 this season. He also made an unbeaten half-century for England Lions in their victory against India A ahead of the first Test. So far, Pope has played only 15 first-class games.

Fast-bowler Jamie Porter failed to make the cut after being initially named in the 13-man squad. On the other hand, Root would confirm at the toss whether Moeen Ali or Chris Woakes will replace Ben Stokes. The allrounder who starred with the ball at Edgbaston will miss the game for his ongoing affray trail.

The hosts are leading the five-match series 1-0 after a thrilling win in the opener. The game swung from one side to another throughout before England finally managed to win it by 31 runs. The game kept the fans on the edge of their seats throughout. If it was India who took the upper hand by dismissing England for 287 in the first innings then England also did well by taking a 13-run lead despite Virat Kohli scoring a majestic 149.

In the second innings, India had the hosts on the mat by reducing them to 87 for 7. However, a 63-run knock from Sam Curran helped them post 180. It eventually turned out to be the difference.

At 141 for 6 with Kohli and Hardik Pandya on the crease, the game was slightly tilted in India’s favour. However, Stokes dismissed Kohli and Mohammed Shami inside an over to put England on top. Pandya threatened to run away with the game but Stokes struck again to remove Pandya and fire England to a stunning win.

England 12-man squad:

Joe Root (c), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow (w), Stuart Broad, Jos Buttler, Alastair Cook, Sam Curran, Keaton Jennings, Ollie Pope, Adil Rashid, Chris Woakes.