In a crucial development ahead of the second Test of the Ashes 2023 series, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have unveiled England’s playing XI. The team will face off against Australia at Lord’s in London, with the match scheduled to begin on June 28.
England have made a notable change to their playing XI, opting for an all-pace attack by including fast bowler Josh Tongue. The 25-year-old will make his Ashes debut, replacing off-spinner Moeen Ali in the final XI. Moeen had suffered an index finger injury during the Edgbaston Test, but despite bowling in the nets on Monday, he was not selected for the second Test.
Tongue has been in fine form, showcasing his abilities in his recent Test debut against Ireland at Lord’s. In that match, he impressed with figures of 5/66 in the second innings, which likely contributed to his inclusion in the team for the Ashes series.
Interestingly, apart from former captain Joe Root, who can contribute with some spin bowling, England have decided not to field a specialist spinner in their playing XI. This strategic decision reflects the team’s reliance on their pace attack to counter Australia’s batting lineup.
The Three Lions find themselves trailing 1-0 in the five-match Test series following a close defeat in the opening Test, where Australia secured a 2-wicket victory. With the Ashes at stake, England will be eager to level the series with a strong performance at Lord’s.
England’s playing XI for second Test: Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Ollie Robinson, Josh Tongue, James Anderson
