Picture Credit: X
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Sunday, June 30 announced a 14-member squad for the upcoming West Indies Tests. The Three Lions will host West Indies in a three-match Test series, starting July 10 at the Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Speaking of the England squad, while the side sees the return of Chris Woakes, veteran pacer James Anderson will bid adieu to international cricket after the conclusion of the first Test against the Windies. The Three Lions have also called up fast bowler Dillon Pennington and batter Jamie Smith. While Pennington is yet to make his international debut, Smith has previously appeared in two ODIs.
While announcing the team for the upcoming Test series, ECB Managing Director for England Men’s Cricket, Rob Key said, “We are looking forward to getting the season underway against a strong West Indies side in what will be an excellent Test series.”
James Anderson to retire after first Test vs West Indies
One of England cricket's greatest players, James Anderson had earlier in May 2024 confirmed the news about his retirement. The Lancashire fast-bowler revealed that he will call it a career after England's first Test against West Indies at the Lord's. "Hi everyone. Just a note to say that the first Test of the summer at Lord’s will be my last Test. It’s been an incredible 20 years representing my country, playing the game I’ve loved since I was a kid. I’m going to miss walking out for England so much. But I know the time is right to step aside and let others realise their dreams just like I got to because there is no greater feeling," he had captioned a post on Instagram.
Seeing it to be the last dance for Anderson, Rob Key said, “The first Test of the summer is always a special moment, but it will be extra poignant with it being Jimmy’s (Anderson) last Test before he retires. He has given everything to the sport since his Test debut in 2003. We all would like to wish him well as he walks out at Lord’s for the last time for England.”
England’s squad for first two Tests vs West Indies
Ben Stokes (C), James Anderson (First Test only), Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Joe Root, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Dillon Pennington, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes.
