England cricket: Zak Crawley dropped for first test against Black Caps

England could field three debutants in their XI for the first of a three-test series against New Zealand at Lord’s starting on June 4.

But just as intriguing is the prospect of a recall for Robinson after a long spell in the international wilderness.

The 32-year-old has a superb test record, with 76 wickets at a miserly average of 22.92 in just 20 appearances.

Robinson, however, has not played for England since February 2024, with doubts raised over the Sussex seamer’s fitness and attitude.

But with England in dire need of a new-ball spearhead following the various retirements of James Anderson, Stuart Broad and Chris Woakes, he now has a chance to revive his test career.

The in-form Gay, 26, is a county colleague of Stokes at Durham – whose departing director of cricket Marcus North, the former Australia batsman, was named as England’s new national selector yesterday.

Gay, batting at No 3 but with long experience as an opener behind him, has scored 522 runs, including three centuries, at a huge average of 92 for his county this season.

Rising star Rew, 22, looks set to be the reserve batsman and a back-up wicketkeeper to Jamie Smith.

Ahmed, who became England’s youngest men’s test cricketer aged 18 in Pakistan in 2022, is one of two specialist slow bowlers in a 15-man squad alongside Shoaib Bashir, unused during the Ashes.

Occasional off-spinner Will Jacks, who featured in Australia, has been dropped along with Ollie Pope, who lost his place during the Ashes following a run of low scores.

England managing director Rob Key said the squad was an “exciting blend” of proven international performers and strong county form.

“Emilio, James and Sonny have all earned their opportunities through consistent performances and have impressed us not only with their talent, but with the way they’ve gone about their cricket in high-pressure situations,” added former England batsman Key.

“It’s also great to welcome back players like Rehan, Matt and Ollie, who all bring different qualities and experience to the group.”

England squad:

Ben Stokes (c), Rehan Ahmed, Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, James Rew (wkt), Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wkt), Josh Tongue

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