England name 12-man squad for Lord's Test

England have revealed their 12-man squad for the second Test against India at Lord’s. They haven’t named their playing XI like they did ahead of the series opener but have confirmed that Ollie Pope will make his debut at number 4 for his country. The 20-year-old will replace Dawid Malan who endured a poor outing at Edgbaston and in turn, was dropped by the selectors from the side.

The hosts though are pondering over the inclusion of Chris Woakes and Moeen Ali in the side. The final decision will be taken on the morning of the Test match keeping in mind the conditions on offer. The searing heat in London has left the teams confused over whether to pick the extra spinner. Jamie Porter has once again missed out on a place in the final XI as one of Woakes and Moeen Ali will make it to the side now according to the official website of ECB.

Green pitch on offer?

The look of the pitch two days ahead of the Test match suggested that it might be a green top. But there are also chances of the grass being cut in the lead up to the game which might be the reason England have resorted from revealing their playing XI. The uncertainty is due to the absence of Ben Stokes who is busy attending Court trial for his involvement in Bristol brawl last year.

If the pitch wears a dry look then Moeen Ali might come back into the contention else it will be Woakes which will also strengthen the fast-bowling line-up of the hosts. In either case, the batting line-up will be extended for England as both are no mug with the willow. It all depends on the conditions and pitch as Joe Root will reveal his playing XI at the toss.

England 12-man squad: Joe Root (c), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow (w), Stuart Broad, Jos Buttler, Alastair Cook, Sam Curran, Keaton Jennings, Ollie Pope, Adil Rashid, Chris Woakes.

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