Gus Atkinson and Jamie Smith are set to make their England Test debuts as the team announced their playing XI for the upcoming match against West Indies at Lord's on July 10. This will also mark the final Test for the legendary James Anderson, who will be retiring after the game.
Atkinson, who has previously played for England in white-ball cricket, and Smith, who has featured in 2 matches in the 50-over format, have been given the opportunity ahead of players like Jonny Bairstow and Ben Foakes. Additionally, Harry Brook, who missed the India series due to personal reasons, has been included in the squad. Young spinner Shoaib Bashir, who impressed during the tour of India, will be making his debut on English soil. Chris Woakes, a key player for England during the Ashes last year, is making his return to the team after the series against Australia.
The pace attack will be led by Anderson, who is looking to end his career on a high with a win. Anderson expressed his focus on performing well and achieving victory in his final Test match. The match at Lord's will be Anderson's 188th Test, with all eyes on the veteran pacer as he bids farewell to international cricket.