Chris Woakes and Josh Tongue are set to showcase their talents in the upcoming England Lions match against India A, both hoping to secure a place in the Test squad for the series against India. With England’s fast-bowling options currently limited, this match in Northampton is crucial for selectors evaluating their choices.
Josh Tongue, who took part in England’s innings win over Zimbabwe, and Chris Woakes, who recently made a successful return to playing with six wickets for Warwickshire, will both play in this key encounter. The match against India A features some prominent players preparing for the main Test series, posing a robust challenge.
England’s seam bowling department has been hit by injuries. Gus Atkinson is doubtful due to a hamstring strain incurred against Zimbabwe, while Mark Wood and Jofra Archer are sidelined with respective knee and thumb injuries. Archer, at best, might be fit only by the second Test. Consequently, Woakes and Tongue are vying for spots alongside Brydon Carse, Matthew Potts, and Sam Cook.
Allrounder Ben Stokes, though not listed in the Lions squad, had previously entertained the idea of playing in Northampton if needed. Another player facing injuries, Sonny Baker, is out due to an ankle strain, with Josh Hull also missing because of a bruised heel. Meanwhile, Zaman Akhter, Henry Crocombe, and Dan Mousley have returned to their counties for the T20 Blast. Jordan Cox joins the squad as he recovers from a side strain, and Rehan Ahmed is with England’s T20I side.
India A’s Karun Nair impressed with his double century in the high-scoring draw at Canterbury last week. He’ll be looking to further press his case at Northampton. KL Rahul and Akash Deep are expected to be in action, but Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill, India’s new Test captain, will join the main squad on Friday.
England Lions squad: James Rew (capt & wk), Farhan Ahmed, Jordan Cox, Rocky Flintoff, Emilio Gay, Tom Haines, George Hill, Max Holden, Ben McKinney, Eddie Jack, Ajeet Singh Dale, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes.
