Dan Lawrence returns to England's Test squad after a two-year absence as Joe Root prepares to lead the side against Pakistan in the opening Test at Headingley.

England recall Dan Lawrence for Pakistan Test series

Dan Lawrence returns for England's Pakistan Test series

By News Desk On Aug 6, 2026

LONDON: (Sports Desk) – England have recalled Dan Lawrence to their Test squad for the upcoming series against Pakistan, ending the batter’s two-year absence from the national side.

National selector Marcus North announced a 16-member squad on Thursday, confirming that Lawrence will bat at No. 6, filling the middle-order role left vacant following the retirement of regular captain Ben Stokes.

England have also handed Jordan Cox the No. 3 position after Jacob Bethell was ruled out through injury.

With Stokes unavailable, Joe Root will captain the side during the first two Tests of the three-match series. The opening Test is scheduled to begin at Headingley on August 19.

The selected squad combines experienced players with emerging talent as England prepare for a challenging home series against Pakistan.

England squad for the first two Tests:

Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Jordan Cox, Joe Root (captain), Harry Brook, Dan Lawrence, Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir, Sam Cook, Matthew Fisher, Ollie Pope and Ollie Robinson.