England have confirmed their Playing XI for the India vs England 1st Test starting on Friday. Chris Woakes and Josh Tongue both feature, having played for the England Lions against India A. Ben Stokes has named a largely set line-up, with 3 pacers and Shoaib Bashir being the lone spinner.
IND vs ENG: Chris Woakes makes a return, Josh Tongue passed fit
England have announced their playing XI for the clash at Headingley. Josh Tongue, who suffered an injury scare against India A, has been passed fit and will partner Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse in the pace attack. Jamie Smith will take the gloves, while Bashir features as the finger spinner. Ben Stokes, who was passed fit post surgery, will also chip in with ball in hand.
Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley will open the batting with vice-captain Ollie Pope at No.3. Joe Root and Harry Brook will form the middle order nexus with Ben Stokes. Headingley is Root’s home ground and the former England captain could be in for a big haul.
Pope, meanwhile, keeps his spot in the XI despite direct competition from Jacob Bethell. The England vice-captain scored a stunning 171 against Zimbabwe to ease concerns regarding his spot in the side. However, Bethell smashed 3 fifties at the position against New Zealand, with Pope batting down the order and keeping wickets. With Smith back, Pope has slotted back at No.3
England Playing XI: Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Josh Tongue, Brydon Carse and Shoaib Bashir.
