Archer set for Test debut as England drop Moeen

News24
12 Aug 2019, 22:13 GMT+10

Cape Town - Jofra Archer is in line to make his Test debut in the second Ashes Test at Lord's against Australia while Moeen Ali has been dropped from the home team's squad.

The Barbados-born Archer missed the 251-run defeat in the first Test at Edgbaston after sustaining a side strain during the World Cup.

However, he has convinced the selectors he's ready to play after picking up seven wickets and hitting a century for Sussex's second XI against Gloucestershire.

Left-arm spinner Jack Leach has replaced Moeen in the 12-man squad with the latter losing his place after match figures of 3-172 and scoring just four runs in the first Test.

Archer's return to full fitness is timely after seamer James Anderson limped out of the game in Birmingham with just four overs under his belt due to a calf problem.

With Mark Wood and Olly Stone also ruled out through injury it is almost certain Archer will make his maiden appearance in the Test 'whites'.

Batsman Joe Denly has been given another chance to show what he can do after scoring only 18 and 11 in the first Test batting at number four.

The second Ashes Test starts at Lord's on Wednesday.

England squad for second Ashes Test:

Joe Root (captain), Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Joe Denly, Jack Leach, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, Chris Woakes

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