Mark Stoneman not thinking about Ashes selection

England are in a tricky situation against the visiting West Indies side in the second Test of the 3-match Test series. In the midst of a tense situation, Stoneman has got no time to ponder upon a possible Ashes selection on the basis of a solid 52 in the second essay of the Leeds Test match. The Surrey opener had to overcome a dislocated finger to complete his maiden half century playing in his only second Test for England.

Gutsy knock by newcomer Stoneman

At the close of play on Day 3, England were 171 for 3, just two runs ahead with 7-second innings wicket in hand and their skipper Joe Root looking in ominous touch remaining unbeaten on 45 when stumps were drawn on the third evening. Playing on his home ground, Root was dropped when he was on 10.

Stoneman is the 12th man to partner Alistair Cook at the top of the order ever since Andrew Strauss walked into the sunset in 2012. England faced an uphill task as they conceded a first innings lead of 169 runs when Cook and Stoneman walked out to take guard in the second innings. The latter applied himself well and batted solidly before he was castled by Gabriel.

Stoneman, while speaking to reporters, played down any thoughts of an Ashes selection going into his head. “Just getting here (to play for England) was a long enough road so to start trying to forecast anything beyond my next innings would be daft,” explained the former Durham batsman. Stoneman has just two innings up his sleeves before the selectors will get down to announce the squad for the Ashes series.

Holder hoping to chase under 150

West Indies skipper Jason Holder was upbeat about his team’s chances in the ongoing Test match. He opined that a target of 150 would be easy to chase in the fourth innings which would lead West Indies to win their first Test in England after 2000.

“We’ve got three wickets so far, they’ve only got a lead of two runs, so I think it’s important we hit our straps. I’d say (chasing) anywhere around 150 should be pretty decent” Holder said.