England name Ben Stokes-less XI for 2nd Test after nightclub saga, Jofra Archer returns

England have unveiled a significantly revamped playing XI for the second Test against New Zealand at The Kennington Oval in London, with the absence of Ben Stokes continuing to dominate the headlines following the nightclub controversy that erupted after the series opener.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) already had he dropped Stokes and fellow pacer Gus Atkinson from selection the outcome of an investigation into an alleged breach of team protocol following England’s 115-run win at Lord’s is awaited. Experienced batsman Joe Root will take over the captaincy as England aim to complete the three-match series.

England made four changes to the side that won at Lord’s. Jordan Cox and Sonny Baker are set to make their Test debuts, while Jofra Archer and Matt Fisher will return to the set-up. Archer’s inclusion marks another milestone in his comeback from a string of injury setbacks, with England hoping his pace can add another dimension to their attack.

Four changes to our XI, with Test debuts for Jordan Cox and Sonny Baker – England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 15, 2026

Fisher, meanwhile, is set to play his first Test since his Caribbean debut in 2022. The Yorkshire seamer comes into the side after Ollie Robinson was sidelined with right knee pain despite taking seven wickets in the opening Test.

The selection of Baker underlines England’s intention to build a fast attack. Surrey will be quick to join Archer, Josh Tongue and Fisher in a four-pronged seam unit, with the hosts opting not to pick a frontline spinner.

For Cox, the profession is a reward for perseverance. The Kent batsman came close to making his Test debut on numerous occasions, only for injuries to derail his progress. He suffered a broken right thumb in 2024 and an abdominal muscle injury in 2025, setbacks that delayed his international breakthrough.

The second Test begins on Wednesday, June 17, with England looking to seal the series and shift the focus back to their performances on the field.

England squad for 2nd Test vs New Zealand

Joe Root (capt), Jofra Archer, Sonny Baker, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matt Fisher, Emilio Gay, Jamie Smith (wk), Josh Tongue

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Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

15 Jun 2026 19:40 IST