ENG vs IND: England announce Playing XI for rescheduled fifth Test, James Anderson returns

Team England have confirmed their playing XI for the rescheduled fifth Test against India, which will get underway at Edgbaston on Friday (July 1). Having missed the third Test against New Zealand due to an ankle injury, James Anderson is back in the line-up as Jamie Overton makes way for him. There isn’t any other change in the line-up that defeated the Kiwis in the Headingley Test.

Notably, stakes are incredibly high in the game as England are trailing 1-2 in the inconclusive series. Hence, at best, they can square up the series 2-2 by winning the final game. On the other hand, the visitors just need to avoid a defeat to clinch the trophy.

Resurgent England aim to earn redemption

Nevertheless, the Three Lions have momentum in their favour as they played some excellent brand of cricket in the recently concluded Test series against defending World Test Champions New Zealand.

Under new skipper Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum, the resurgent English side showcased remarkable character in all three matches and recorded a clean sweep. Former skipper Joe Root and Jonny Bairstow were on a roll with the bat and Indian bowlers must be aware of the fact. Skipper Stokes also played some fine knocks against the Kiwis and did well with the ball as well.

As far as the bowling department is concerned, veterans James Anderson and Stuart Broad did exceedingly well in the recently concluded series while youngster Matthew Potts also made a significant mark. Overall, this side is pretty different from the one India dominated last year. Hence, the visitors have some job in hand. Meanwhile, England shouldn’t get complacent by any means as India also have several big guns in their ranks.

England’s playing XI for rescheduled India Test: Alex Lees, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes (c), Sam Billings (w), Matthew Potts, Stuart Broad, Jack Leach, James Anderson.