England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), on Wednesday, announced the 15-member squad for the upcoming Test tour of Pakistan, starting December 01 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Considered a T20 specialist, England’s batting sensation Liam Livingstone has earned his maiden call-up in the red-ball squad along with Surrey all-rounder Will Jacks. Lancashire opener Keaton Jennings and Nottinghamshire batting star Ben Duckett have also been picked in the Test outfit.
Livingstone, who was recently awarded his first central contract by the ECB, was with the team during England’s tour to New Zealand in early 2018 but has not been involved in the Test set-up since.
Fast bowler Mark Wood has returned to the squad, while senior speedster Stuart Broad is set to miss the tour as he will be on paternity leave.
“We are looking forward to touring Pakistan as a Test team for the first time since 2005. It will be a historical tour and a compelling series against a good side,” said Rob Key, ECB Managing Director for England Men’s Cricket, in a statement.
“The selectors have picked a squad for the conditions we can expect in Pakistan. There is a strong blend of youth and experience and players who will adapt well to the types of pitches we are likely to get across the three-match series. I wish the players every success, especially those new to the squad and those returning after a period of time away,” he added.
England squad for Pakistan Tests:
Ben Stokes (captain), James Anderson, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ben Foakes (wk), Will Jacks, Keaton Jennings, Jack Leach, Liam Livingstone, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Mark Wood
