Are Sam Cook and Jordan Cox Ready for England's Test Against Zimbabwe?
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Synopsis
Excitement builds as the uncapped talents of Sam Cook and Jordan Cox join England's squad for their one-off Test against Zimbabwe. With captain Ben Stokes back in action, cricket fans are eager to see how these players will perform on May 22 at Trent Bridge.
Key Takeaways
- Sam Cook and Jordan Cox are included in the squad.
- Ben Stokes returns as captain.
- The match starts on May 22.
- This is Zimbabwe's first Test in England since 2003.
- England’s pace attack includes Tongue, Cook, Atkinson, and Potts.
New Delhi, May 2 (NationPress) The uncapped duo Sam Cook and Jordan Cox have been selected for England's 13-player squad for the upcoming one-off Test against Zimbabwe, commencing on May 22 at Trent Bridge. Team captain Ben Stokes is back in action after recovering from left hamstring surgery he underwent last year.
Cook, aged 27, has consistently proven himself as one of the top bowlers in county cricket while representing Essex. He has accumulated 318 first-class wickets at an impressive average of 19.77 and showcased his talent during the England Lions tour of Australia this past winter, claiming 13 wickets in three matches.
On the flip side, Cox is looking to seize another opportunity after recovering from a thumb injury sustained before the first Test against New Zealand last year, which sidelined him. He also plays county cricket for Essex.
Seamer Josh Tongue has made a return to the Test squad following his last appearance during the Ashes in 2023. He has recently displayed solid form, taking 15 wickets at an average of 24 in the county championship after overcoming previous injuries. Tongue joins Cook, along with Gus Atkinson and Matthew Potts, to strengthen England’s fast-bowling lineup.
Among the batters, Zak Crawley retains his spot despite a challenging series in New Zealand, while Ollie Pope is set to bat at No. 3 after observing Jacob Bethell excel in that position.
However, Bethell is currently participating with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2025 and may miss the Zimbabwe Test should his team reach the playoffs. This match on May 22 will kick off England’s international summer and will also mark Zimbabwe’s first Test match on English soil since 2003.
England Test squad: Ben Stokes (captain), Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Sam Cook, Jordan Cox, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith and Josh Tongue
Point of View
The inclusion of Sam Cook and Jordan Cox highlights England's commitment to nurturing fresh talent while still relying on seasoned players like Ben Stokes. This balanced approach could be key to England's success against Zimbabwe.
NationPress
03/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the new players in England's squad?
The uncapped players in England's squad are Sam Cook and Jordan Cox.
When does the Test against Zimbabwe start?
The Test against Zimbabwe starts on May 22.
Where will the match take place?
The match will take place at Trent Bridge.
Who is leading the England team?
Ben Stokes is leading the England team.
What is significant about this Test for Zimbabwe?
This Test marks Zimbabwe's first on English soil since 2003.
