England prepares for first Test against New Zealand amid Ashes fallout
BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 3, 2026, 4:57 PM
Last updated Jun 3, 2026
England's cricket team faces New Zealand in the first Test at Lord's on Thursday, 145 days after their disappointing Ashes defeat. Coach Brendon McCullum's squad includes nine members from the Ashes team, aiming to recover from recent criticisms and rebuild their reputations. The series against New Zealand comprises three Tests, with players like Jofra Archer ruled out of the first match. Their performance this summer is critical for restoring support from fans who feel disenchanted following the Ashes.
- •England plays New Zealand at Lord's on Thursday.
- •It has been 145 days since the Ashes loss.
- •Nine players from the Ashes squad are retained.
- •Jofra Archer is unavailable for the first Test.
- •England needs a strong showing to regain fan trust.
- 4:57 PMBBC Sport — Why England must move on quickly from Ashes hangover
"England have invested in Brendon McCullum once again but now it is time for his team to start paying back the faith, writes Stephan Shemilt.
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