England have confirmed their playing XI for the third and final Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, starting June 25. The side sees four changes, with Ben Stokes returning as captain after missing the second Test at The Oval. He takes over from Joe Root, who had stepped in during Stokes’ absence.
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Fast bowler Gus Atkinson also comes back into the team, while Shoaib Bashir is recalled to provide spin options on what is expected to be a turning surface at Trent Bridge. Wicketkeeper‑batter Jamie Smith rounds off the quartet of returnees, rejoining the side after missing the previous match due to the birth of his second child.
There is no place, however, for Ollie Robinson, despite the Player of the Match from Lord’s regaining fitness following a knee niggle. Jordan Cox, James Rew, Sonny Baker and Matt Fisher make way for the returning players.
Brendon McCullum urges England to show resolve
Head coach Brendon McCullum acknowledged the challenges ahead, with soaring temperatures expected during the match. He urged his team to show resilience, remarking that true leadership is tested in difficult times.
“They are the moments that your methods and the environment that you’ve created is tested,” McCullum was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. “And that’s what you want. Anyone can lead when it’s easy. The true account of a leader or leadership group is to be able to lead when times are difficult.
“I remember talking to Eoin Morgan after 2015 World Cup, and you know how close I am with him. He came to me and asked me ‘what do you think I should do?’ I said ‘tough times don’t last but tough blokes do’. And I think it’s no different – you’ve got to be prepared to go through some tough times knowing that if you’re able to navigate through that, and hold the fort and hold your nerve, then there’s some good stuff to come.
“That’s how we approach it, that’s how I approach it, that’s how Ben approaches it. That’s why looking at this week, knowing that the prize is large, it’s exciting. Yes it’s going to be nervous for some people. There are going to be moments in the game where things will happen which will decide the outcome for the game.”
England’s playing XI for 3rd Test vs New Zealand
Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (wk), Ben Stokes (c), Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir
