Ollie Pope returns to England Test squad for Pakistan series
Sky Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 6, 2026, 2:53 PM
Last updated Aug 6, 2026
England has named a 16-man squad for the opening two Tests against Pakistan, with Joe Root returning as captain. Ollie Pope makes a comeback after a nine-month absence, having scored 510 runs at an average of 56.66 in the County Championship. Dan Lawrence is expected to fill in as an all-rounder for Ben Stokes, with a stellar County campaign behind him. Sam Curran is also in contention for a Test return, as England seeks a replacement for the injured Stokes. The new squad marks a significant transition for the team under Root and head coach Stephen Fleming.
- •Ollie Pope returns as a reserve batter for the Pakistan Tests.
- •Dan Lawrence is favored to replace Ben Stokes as an all-rounder.
- •Sam Curran is also considered for the all-rounder role.
- •Joe Root leads the squad in his second spell as captain.
- •The Tests against Pakistan are an opportunity for squad rejuvenation.
"Returning captain Joe Root and England have named their 16-man squad for the opening two Tests against Pakistan - here's what we learnt from the announcement..
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