England unveils XI for Ireland Test: Young seamer earns test debut

England has finalized its playing XI for the upcoming one-off Test against Ireland, scheduled to commence on June 1 at Lord’s. In an exciting development, uncapped seamer Josh Tongue has been named in the team, marking his Test debut.

The absence of experienced pacers James Anderson and Ollie Robinson due to injuries paved the way for 25-year-old Tongue to showcase his skills on the international stage. Tongue boasts an impressive track record in first-class cricket, having claimed 162 wickets in 47 matches.

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Although Anderson and Robinson are expected to recover in time for the first Ashes Test, England’s head coach Brendon McCullum confirmed their unavailability for the Ireland match. McCullum expressed confidence in their fitness for the marquee Ashes encounter while highlighting the team’s depth and options.

Joining Tongue in the pace attack are Matthew Potts and veteran Stuart Broad. Ben Stokes, whose bowling fitness remains uncertain, will provide additional support with his versatile abilities. Despite being part of the squad, Chris Woakes did not make it into the final XI for the Ireland Test.

The batting lineup will see Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley open, followed by Ollie Pope, who has been appointed vice-captain and is slated to bat at No.3. England’s captain, Joe Root, will occupy the No.4 position, with Stokes, Harry Brook, and Jonny Bairstow to follow.

In terms of spin, left-arm spinner Jack Leach has been entrusted as the sole spinner in the team, highlighting England’s reliance on their pace attack for this particular encounter.

The selection of Josh Tongue represents England’s commitment to nurturing young talent and providing them with opportunities at the highest level. As the Test match against Ireland approaches, anticipation builds for Tongue’s debut, while the rest of the team aims to showcase their skills and prepare for the much-anticipated Ashes series.

The England XI for the Ireland Test comprises Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Matthew Potts, Josh Tongue, and Jack Leach.