(Source X)
England has unveiled their 14-player squad for the initial duo of Tests in the imminent three-match series versus West Indies, as announced on Sunday (June 30).
The squad notably includes veteran seamer James Anderson, who is slated to feature solely in the first Test. Anderson, who recently disclosed his retirement plans from Test cricket, will conclude his illustrious career following the series opener.
Earlier this year, Anderson etched his name in cricket history by becoming the premier fast bowler and just the third bowler overall to achieve the milestone of 700 Test wickets, joining the esteemed company of Shane Warne and Muttiah Muralitharan. His unparalleled career makes him the most distinguished fast bowler in the annals of the sport.
With a career spanning more than two decades, Anderson’s journey began with his ODI debut for England in 2002, followed by his Test debut in 2003. His remarkable tally of 187 Test appearances for England places him second only to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who holds the record with 200 Tests.
“The first Test of the summer is always a special moment, but it will be extra poignant with it being Jimmy’s (Anderson) last Test before he retires,” said ECB managing director for England men’s cricket Rob Key. “He has given everything to the sport since his Test debut in 2003. We all would like to wish him well as he walks out at Lord’s for the last time for England.
“We are looking forward to getting the season underway against a strong West Indies side in what will be an excellent Test series,” he added.
England’s squad for the upcoming Test series against West Indies sees fresh faces in Nottinghamshire’s Dillon Pennington and Surrey’s Jamie Smith, both earning their maiden call-ups. Gus Atkinson, previously part of the squad for the India tour, joins them as another uncapped player.
Notably absent are Ben Foakes and Jonny Bairstow, paving the way for Jamie Smith to potentially take on the wicketkeeping duties under the leadership of Ben Stokes. Smith has been in exceptional form domestically, amassing 507 runs at an impressive average of over 75.
Pennington, meanwhile, has made a strong case with his bowling prowess, having secured 29 wickets for Nottinghamshire this season after his move from Worcestershire.
The series kicks off with the first Test at Lord’s starting on July 10, followed by the second Test at Trent Bridge from July 18, and concluding with the third Test at Edgbaston starting on July 26.
England squad:
– Ben Stokes (C)
– James Anderson (First Test only)
– Gus Atkinson
– Shoaib Bashir
– Harry Brook
– Zak Crawley
– Ben Duckett
– Dan Lawrence
– Dillon Pennington
– Ollie Pope
– Matthew Potts
– Joe Root
– Jamie Smith
– Chris Woakes
