England playing XI for 2nd Test vs New Zealand: Joe Root back as captain; Jordan Cox, Sonny Baker to make debuts
The England and Wales Cricket Board on Monday announced its starting lineup for the second Test against New Zealand, starting Tuesday at the Oval in London.
Joe Root was handed the captaincy following Ben Stokes’ axe from the role due to his breach of midnight curfew rules after England’s first-Test victory.
Ollie Robinson had suffered an injury before the second game and was also ruled out for the game. Sonny Baker, who plays for Hampshire in County Cricket, will replace him.
Jordan Cox is also set to make his maiden Test appearance as England attempts to clinch the series with another win.
England lineup
Joe Root (c), Jofra Archer, Sonny Baker, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matt Fisher, Emilio Gay, Jamie Smith (wk), Josh Tongue.
Published on Jun 15, 2026
