England has named their squad ahead of their three-Test series against New Zealand next month. Among the players in the squad are James Anderson and Stuart Broad. Both players were not named in the squad that travelled to New Indies for a Test tour back in March, where England suffered its first loss following the Ashes last December.

After their exclusion from the squad in March, both players expressed worries that their international careers may have come to an end. But now that they are under a new coach and captain, they have earned their spots back.

The Text in New Zealand next month would be the first under their director, Rob Key, coach Brendon McCullum, and Captain Ben Stokes, and so there are a lot of expectations over how things would turn out. According to Key, the Test would mark the beginning of a new era with England Cricket being under a new command across all levels.

About the squad, Key said, “with a blend of youth and experience, we have selected an exciting squad that can compete with New Zealand in next month’s Test series.” New additions to the squad include Harry Brook and Matthew Potts, who would be playing their first international Test.

Key went further: “It promises to be a mouthwatering series, and I can’t wait for the team to start against a very good New Zealand side. It is a fascinating prospect for everyone connected with the sport in this country.”

Indeed, the expectations are there, and it is only a matter of weeks before we see if the recent efforts they have put in would lead to positive changes. This means England would have to win the series.

The Test series against New Zealand is a part of the ICC World Test Championship, where England currently sits at the bottom of the table.

Other players in the 13-man squad include skipper Ben Stokes, Jonathan Bairstow, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, Jack Leach, Alex Lees, Craig Overton, Matthew Potts, Ollie Pope, and Joe Root.

Written by: Leon Osamor