With the IPL 2026 and T20 World Cup 2026 now in the rear-view mirror, attention shifts back to the longest format as England prepare to host New Zealand in a crucial Test series. Ben Stokes side will begin their campaign with the first Test at Lord’s starting on June 4, looking to rebuild momentum after a disappointing Ashes series against Australia.
The series also carries significant importance in the ongoing World Test Championship cycle, with England currently sitting in the lower half of the standings. As a result, the selectors have made a few notable decisions while naming a 12-man squad for the opening Test, including rewarding domestic performers and recalling an experienced fast bowler.
England announce 12-man squad for Lord’s Test against New Zealand
England have named a 12-player squad for the first Test against New Zealand, with Durham batter Emilio Gay and Hampshire fast bowler Sonny Baker receiving their maiden call-ups to the national side. Gay has been one of the standout performers in county cricket and is set to make his Test debut after England director Rob Key confirmed that the left-hander will open the batting alongside Ben Duckett.
Baker, meanwhile, has earned recognition for his pace and impressive domestic performances, giving England another exciting fast-bowling option. The biggest talking point from the squad announcement is the return of Ollie Robinson. The Sussex seamer last featured for England in February 2024 and is now back in contention after more than two years away from the Test setup.
Zak Crawley dropped as England reshape top order
One of the major omissions from the squad is opening batter Zak Crawley. Despite receiving an extended run in the side, Crawley struggled for consistency during the Ashes and finished the series with an average of just 27.30. England’s management appears ready to move in a new direction, with Gay emerging as Crawley’s likely replacement at the top of the order.
The rest of the batting group remains familiar, featuring Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell and wicketkeeper Jamie Smith alongside captain Stokes. Jofra Archer, who recently featured extensively for Rajasthan Royals (RR) during IPL 2026, has been rested for the opening Test. In his absence, England’s pace attack is expected to revolve around Gus Atkinson, Josh Tongue, Robinson, Baker and Stokes himself.
Important series for England’s WTC ambitions
The upcoming series holds significant importance for England’s World Test Championship campaign. The side currently sits seventh in the WTC 2025-27 standings after a difficult run of results. From their first 10 matches in the cycle, England have managed only three victories while suffering six defeats and registering one draw.
A strong showing against New Zealand could significantly improve their position and revive hopes of reaching the WTC final. With experienced stars such as Root, Brook and Stokes joined by emerging talents like Gay and Baker, England will be hoping the fresh-look squad can deliver a positive start at the Home of Cricket.
England’s 12-man squad for the 1st Test against New Zealand: Ben Stokes (captain), Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wk), Josh Tongue.
