England is set to face Sri Lanka in a three-match Test series, with the first match kicking off on Wednesday at Old Trafford in Manchester. The team has announced its playing XI, featuring some notable changes due to injuries and form.
In the absence of regular captain Ben Stokes, who is sidelined with a hamstring injury, Ollie Pope will take the reins as England’s leader. Harry Brook has been named as his deputy.
The team selection also sees the return of fast bowler Matthew Potts, who last played for England in June 2023. Dan Lawrence has earned a spot in the squad as an opener, filling the void left by Zak Crawley, who is nursing a finger injury.
The second Test match of the series will be held at Lord’s starting August 29th, with the final match taking place at The Oval beginning September 6th.
England enters the series riding high on a recent 3-0 Test series victory against the West Indies. They are currently ranked seventh in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points table.
Here is the full England playing XI for the first Test against Sri Lanka:
* Dan Lawrence
* Ben Duckett
* Ollie Pope (captain)
* Joe Root
* Harry Brook (vice-captain)
* Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper)
* Chris Woakes
* Gus Atkinson
* Matthew Potts
* Mark Wood
* Shoaib Bashir
