Cox and Baker Set for Debuts as England Name XI for New Zealand Test

England have announced a significantly reshuffled squad for the second Test against New Zealand, with Jordan Cox and Sonny Baker set to make their Test debuts at The Oval on Wednesday. Jofra Archer and Matt Fisher have also returned to the side.

Captain Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have been rested for the match after breaching team protocols during celebrations following England’s 115-run victory in the first Test. In Stokes’ absence, Joe Root will serve as interim captain. Fast bowler Ollie Robinson has been ruled out with a knee injury, while off-spinner Shoaib Bashir has also missed out on selection.

Essex batter Jordan Cox has long been regarded as a promising prospect by England selectors. He was not included in the squad for the first Test after spending time with Royal Challengers Bengaluru during the IPL. However, a County Championship double century strengthened his case for selection, earning him a place in the side as a specialist No. 7 batter.

Cox was originally set to make his Test debut during England’s tour of New Zealand in 2024, but a thumb injury sustained during a net session ruled him out. He is now finally set to realise that dream at The Oval.

Meanwhile, 23-year-old Sonny Baker is also in line to receive his first Test cap. The Hampshire pacer has played only 12 County Championship matches but has been viewed as part of England’s long-term plans for some time.

England’s four-man pace attack has a combined experience of just 29 Test caps. Head coach Brendon McCullum believes the match will provide an important assessment of England’s efforts to build a new generation of fast bowlers following the retirements of James Anderson and Stuart Broad.

New Zealand are also expected to make at least one change to their lineup. Following Kane Williamson’s sudden retirement, either Henry Nicholls or Will Young is likely to replace him at No. 3.

England Probable XI for the Second Test:

Emilio Gay, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root (captain), Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Jordan Cox, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue, Matt Fisher, Sonny Baker.

James Rew could replace Jamie Smith if the wicketkeeper is unavailable due to paternity leave.