England recalls Pope, Lawrence and Cook for Pakistan Test series

The Guardian Sport1 min read • Latest: Aug 6, 2026, 9:00 AM

Last updated Aug 6, 2026

England recalls Pope, Lawrence and Cook for Pakistan Test series
Summary

England has announced changes to its Test squad ahead of the three-match series against Pakistan starting on August 19 at Headingley. Ollie Pope, Dan Lawrence, and Sam Cook have been recalled, while Jordan Cox is set to bat at No 3 following Jacob Bethell's injury. This series marks Joe Root's return as captain, following the departure of Ben Stokes. The squad comprises 16 players, providing Root with various options as he aims to create a balanced team without a genuine all-rounder.

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Status Watch
  • Ollie Pope, Dan Lawrence, and Sam Cook return to the squad.
  • Jordan Cox will bat at No 3 due to Jacob Bethell's injury.
  • Joe Root's first assignment back as captain starts on August 19.
  • England has a 16-player squad for the Pakistan series.
  • The series will test England's balance without a genuine all-rounder.
Latest Updates
  • 9:00 AMThe Guardian SportEngland reshuffle Test pack with Pope, Lawrence and Cook back for Pakistan series
What they're saying
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Jordan Cox handed No 3 position due to Bethell injury Root’s first assignment back as captain is at Headingley Life after Ben Stokes begins with a reshuffle of England’s Test squad. Ollie Pope, Dan Lawrence and Sam Cook have all earned recalls for the start of the three-match series against Pakistan, while Jordan Cox also returns and will bat at No 3 after Jacob Bethell was ruled out of the series through injury. Joe Root’s first assignment back as permanent Test captain gets underway at Headingley on 19 August and a 16-strong squad means plenty of options at his disposal. Without a genuine all-rounder post-Stokes, the big question will be whittling this number down to give Root a balanced XI. Continue reading...

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