England have announced a 15-man squad for next month's first Test against New Zealand at Lord's, marking their first selection since the disappointing 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia. The squad features three uncapped players: Durham opener Emilio Gay, Somerset wicketkeeper-batter James Rew, and Hampshire fast bowler Sonny Baker.
Key changes and omissions
Zak Crawley has been dropped from the squad, with Emilio Gay emerging as a strong candidate to open the batting alongside Ben Duckett. Gay has impressed this season with three first-class centuries for Durham. The squad also sees the return of Sussex seamer Ollie Robinson after a two-year absence, alongside Matthew Fisher and young quick Sonny Baker, as England look to strengthen their new-ball options.
Spinning options and injuries
Leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed and off-spinner Shoaib Bashir are expected to compete for the specialist spinner's role. Jofra Archer is unavailable due to Indian Premier League commitments, while Brydon Carse is sidelined by injury. The absence of both players leaves England's pace attack reliant on the recalled Robinson and the uncapped Baker.
New selector appointed
Marcus North, the former Australia batter, has been appointed as England's new selector, succeeding Luke Wright. North will work alongside captain Ben Stokes, head coach Brendon McCullum, and managing director Rob Key in shaping the squad for the upcoming series.
Full squad
- Ben Stokes (c)
- Emilio Gay
- Ben Duckett
- James Rew
- Ollie Robinson
- Matthew Fisher
- Sonny Baker
- Rehan Ahmed
- Shoaib Bashir
- Others to be confirmed
The first Test against New Zealand begins on June 2 at Lord's, with England aiming to bounce back from their Ashes disappointment.
