By Admin 
England Test Squad For New Zealand, 2026: In the midst of IPL 2026, the England Cricket Board has announced a 15-member team for the first match of the Test series against New Zealand. Three new players have got a place in the squad, who have not played a single test till now. This also includes 1 uncapped player. Whereas fast bowler Jofra Archer, who is playing for Rajasthan Royals in the current season, will not be available for the first test. The captaincy of the team has been handed over to regular captain Ben Stokes.
These 3 new players got place
The three players include Durham’s top order batsman Emilio Gay, Hampshire’s fast bowler Sunny Baker and Somerset’s wicketkeeper batsman James Rave. Whereas spinner Rehan Ahmed and fast bowlers Matthew Fisher and Ollie Robinson have returned to the Test squad.
Statement issued regarding Joffra Archer
Talking about Archer, England Men’s Managing Director Rob Key said, “Jofra Archer is not available for the first Test. He will continue to play in the IPL and it is about preparing him for red-ball cricket after a long six-month tour.”
The series will start from June 04
A three-match Test series will be played hosted by England. The first Test will be held at Lord’s in London from June 4, for which the team has been announced. The final match of the series will be played in Nottingham from 25th June.
England’s squad for the first test
Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethel, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, James Reve, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tong.
When will Rehan Ahmed and Jacob Bethal return in IPL 2026?
Regarding the return of Rehan Ahmed and Jaibak Bethal, it was told in the release that both the players will return to England after their commitments with Delhi Capitals and Royal Challengers Bangalore are over.
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