Matthew Potts is being considered for a spot in England's Ashes squad as selectors finalise their plans for the tour of Australia. The 26-year-old Durham seamer, who has 10 Test caps, withdrew from recent T20 internationals to focus on red-ball cricket and has impressed in the County Championship.
Chris Woakes faces a race against time to be fit after dislocating his shoulder during the fifth Test against India. The 36-year-old has opted against surgery and is making good progress in rehabilitation, but his inclusion remains a risk.
Jamie Overton's withdrawal from first-class cricket has opened up a seam bowling slot, with Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, and Mark Wood all expected to be selected. Wood is on track to return from knee surgery in March.
England head coach Brendon McCullum has indicated few surprises in the squad, but the final decisions on extra pace cover and the second spinner are yet to be made. Shoaib Bashir is the lead spinner, with Rehan Ahmed, Liam Dawson, Jack Leach, and Will Jacks in contention for the backup role.
Ben Stokes is expected to be fit after a shoulder injury, and Ollie Pope will serve as the backup wicketkeeper. Jacob Bethell is likely to be the extra batter, challenging Pope for the No. 3 spot. The squad could be announced alongside the white-ball tour of New Zealand.
