England’s Test squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka has been announced, with several notable changes. Fast bowler Matthew Potts has been recalled to the team, while Ollie Pope will take over as captain in the absence of Ben Stokes.
Stokes, who has been a key figure in England’s recent resurgence under coach Brendon McCullum, is set to miss the entire series due to a hamstring injury sustained during the Hundred. His absence will be a significant blow to the team, as he has been a driving force behind their aggressive “Bazball” approach.
Pope, who has only captained Surrey in one first-class match, will now lead the side. The 25-year-old is a talented batsman who has been in good form for England in recent months. However, he will have a tough task on his hands, as Sri Lanka are a dangerous team, especially in their own conditions.
Potts, who has impressed for Durham in the County Championship this season, has been recalled to the Test squad for the first time since making his debut against Australia in 2022. The 24-year-old is a promising young bowler who could add some much-needed pace to England’s attack.
Other players who have been given a chance to prove themselves in Stokes’s absence include batter Harry Brook and all-rounder Jamie Overton. Brook has been in excellent form for Yorkshire in the County Championship, while Overton has impressed for Somerset.
England will be hoping to start the series well at Old Trafford, where they have a good record. However, Sri Lanka will be no pushovers, and they will be looking to make a statement against a weakened England side.
