England have named their playing XI for the second Test against India, starting July 2 at Edgbaston in Birmingham. The hosts will walk into the contest brimming with confidence after a thrilling five-wicket win in the opening Test at Headingley. India, led by Shubman Gill, will be desperate for a turnaround, especially given their dismal history at Edgbaston—losing seven out of eight Tests here, with just one ending in a draw.
No place for Jofra Archer as England retain winning XI
In a move that surprised many fans and pundits alike, England have opted to field an unchanged XI, leaving out pace spearhead Jofra Archer, who was widely tipped for a Test return. Archer, included in the squad for the second Test, will now have to wait longer for his much-anticipated comeback.
Despite being match-fit and coming through a red-ball outing for Sussex unscathed, the 30-year-old fast bowler was not considered for selection, partly due to his absence from Monday’s training session owing to a family emergency. England have instead placed their faith in the same bowling unit that turned the tide at Headingley, including Josh Tongue and Brydon Carse, alongside Chris Woakes, who will be playing at his home ground.
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England eye 2-0 lead, India aim to level the series
With momentum on their side, England will be aiming to seal a 2-0 lead in the series. The Ben Stokes-led side chased down a record 371 runs in the fourth innings of the first Test, showcasing both resilience and firepower. Expectations are high for a repeat performance in Birmingham. India, however, are expected to respond strongly under the leadership Gill. Despite centuries from Indian batters in Leeds, the team faltered in key moments, especially with the ball. With pride and the series at stake, a hard-fought contest is on the cards at Edgbaston.
England’s XI for second Test against India:
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir
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