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 at the Lord’s Cricket Ground in London.

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

Notably, seasoned pacer, 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, despite being part of the squad against Ireland, as he warmed the bench to recover completely for the crucial English summer.

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, as named in the one-off Test against Ireland. Josh Tongue, who made his international debut against Ireland, retains his spot in the bowling ranks alongside Stuart Broad, Matthew Potts, James Anderson, Ollie Robinson, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood and spinner Jack Leach. On the other hand, wicketkeeper Ben Foakes has once again been overlooked by the selectors and will be confined to the sidelines.

The Three Lions will lock horns with arch-rivals Australia in the first Test which 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