England’s Test squad for their upcoming three-match series against Pakistan has been announced, with Brydon Carse and Jack Leach making notable returns.
Carse, 29, has been included despite serving a ban for betting irregularities earlier this year. The fast bowler has impressed since his return to action, scoring a century for Durham against Somerset. His inclusion adds another 90mph option to England’s bowling attack, alongside Gus Atkinson and Olly Stone.
Leach, meanwhile, is back in the squad for the first time since the tour of India in February. The spinner has recovered from a knee injury and has been in good form for Somerset, claiming 12 wickets in his most recent match. He will partner Shoaib Bashir, who has established himself as England’s first-choice spinner in home conditions.
Chris Woakes has also been recalled for his first overseas engagement since March 2022. Despite concerns about his effectiveness away from home, Woakes has responded well to the responsibility of leading England’s bowling attack since James Anderson’s retirement.
The squad also includes several other notable players, such as Ben Stokes (captain), Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Josh Hull, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, and Olly Stone.
England will be hoping to build on their recent success against West Indies and Sri Lanka, and will be confident of a strong showing in Pakistan. The series gets underway next month, with the first Test scheduled to begin on December 1.
