Ashes 2023: England name 16-member squad for first two Tests

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) named a 16-member squad for the first two Tests of the eagerly-anticipated Ashes 2023. Notably, the selection panel has named an unchanged squad from the one-off Test being played against Ireland.

Following the conclusion of the one-off Test against Irealnd, the English red-ball contingent will travel to Birmingham on June 12. After reporting at the venue, the side will begin their practice sessions at Edgbaston from Tuesday, June 13.

Notably, James Anderson, who recently sustained a ‘mild strain’ to his right groin, has been included in the setup. In addition to this, the ECB did not risk the veteran pacer during the one-off Test.

Ben Stokes will lead the side amid injury concerns, Ollie Pope to continue as Vice Captain

Skipper Ben Stokes will continue to lead the side with Ollie Pope as the vice-captain. Josh Tongue, who made his international debut against Ireland, retains his spot in the bowling ranks. He will share the field alongside Broad, Matthew Potts, Anderson, Robinson, Woakes, Wood and spinner Jack Leach. On the other hand, wicketkeeper Ben Foakes has once again been overlooked by the selectors.

The Three Lions will lock horns with arch-rivals Australia in the first Test. It is slated to commence on June 16 at Edgbaston in Birmingham. The second Test will be played on June 28 at Lord’s in London. It is worth mentioning that the selectors are likely to decide upon their setup for the rest of the Test matches during the first two fixtures of the Ashes 2023.

England squad for first two Ashes Tests: Ben Stokes (c), James Anderson, Jonathan Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, Josh Tongue