Ashes 2023: England announce playing XI for Headingley Test, James Anderson dropped

The Ashes 2023 got off to the worst of starts for hosts England. Having lost the first two Test matches against Australia, the Ben Stokes-led side will be getting desperate in their search for answers as the third Test of the marquee series is right around the corner.

The third Test of the Ashes 2023 will be played at Headingley in Leeds from July 6. Ahead of the game, England came forward to announce their playing XI for the third game. It is worth noting that Mark Wood and Chris Woakes make their way into the lineup after Josh Tongue and James Anderson were dropped.

Another change in the lineup is the comeback of veteran all-rounder Moeen Ali. It is worth noting that Ali played the first Ashes 2023 Test but was rested for the second one due to injury. As batter Ollie Pope dislocated his shoulder, Ali would look to add even more flair to the lower order, which could be a big reason why England opted not to go with another batter.

Harry Brook has been handed Pope’s role as the No. 3 batter, and the youngster would be keen on making an instant impact as England look to claw their way back into the series.

We're obviously devastated for Popey: Stokes

Furthermore, with Ollie Pope missing out on the playing XI due to his dislocated shoulder, England skipper Ben Stokes came forward to reveal how big of a blow Pope’s absence is going to be for the hosts.

"We're obviously devastated for Popey, he's been a huge part of what we've managed to achieve over the last 18 months, and obviously, being vice captain, it's a real shame not only for us, but also for him in such a big series," Stokes was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

England lineup for Headingley Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Harry Brook, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow (wk), Ben Stokes (capt), Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, Ollie Robinson, Stuart Broad, Mark Wood