Mark Wood ruled out of third Test against South Africa

Toby Roland-Jones is in line to make his Test debut in the iconic 100th Test match at The Oval following an injury to Mark Wood. Initially, Wood was deemed fit for the 3rd Test after the scans on his troubled heel cleared him of an injury. But just at the cusp of the penultimate game, Wood was ruled out of the Test match.

Root confirms Roland-Jones’ debut

Wood has had three ankle operations in the last two years and maybe the soreness in his left heel has got something to do with it. He hasn’t been at his penetrating best in the two Tests so far picking just a solitary wicket in four innings. England selectors have called in Steven Finn as a replacement for Wood but Root confirmed Toby’s debut as he has been a part of the squad for the entire series.

Roland-Jones recently made his ODI debut against South Africa in May. He did a decent job by returning with 1/34 and contributing 37* with the bat. He plays for Middlesex in the County Championship and has taken 22 wickets at 35.63 this season. His overall first class record is far more impressive – 339 wickets at 25.73 in 91 games. The 29-year old is a handy lower order batsman and boasts of a hundred for Middlesex in first class cricket.

England needs to show their mettle

England has been rebuked for their dismal performance at Trent Bridge. They were bundled out in both innings after facing just 96.1 overs collectively across both essays. Their batting has looked very brittle and relies too much on senior statesmen – Cook and Root.

The Oval hasn’t been a happy hunting ground for England in the recent while, something which the visitors will be wary of. This will be a stern Test for new skipper Joe Root only in his third Test as the captain of England.