Jofra Archer has been named in England’s Ashes squad to face Australia with Ben Stokes returning as the Test vice-captain.
Lancashire batsman Jos Buttler also returns after being rested for the Test win against Ireland at Lord’s.
The 14-man squad has been named for the 1st Ashes Test at Edgbaston, which starts on Thursday, August 1.
Archer shone this summer as England won the World Cup, but has been dealing with a side strain and returned to action for Sussex on Friday in the Vitality Blast after sitting out the victory over Ireland at Lord’s. The 24-year-old has taken 131 wickets at 23.44 in 28 first class matches.
Stokes assumes his role as vice-captain from Buttler for the first time since September 2017 after disciplinary issues.
Managing Director of England Men’s Cricket Ashley Giles and ECB Chief Executive Tom Harrison both recommended the appointment, with Colin Graves, Chairman of the ECB, approving the decision.
Lancashire seamer Jimmy Anderson is included and is making good progress after a right calf injury.
While Somerset’s Lewis Gregory and Jack Leach miss out after being included in the squad to face Ireland.
National Selector Ed Smith explained the decision for the expanded squad, with the team set to report for training in Birmingham on Monday.
“Though it is unusual to select a squad of 14 for a home Test, there are compelling reasons to do so here. Several bowlers are recovering from injuries or niggles,” Smith explained.
“In addition, some bowlers who played in the World Cup are being closely monitored to assess their preparation for Test match cricket.
“The wider circumstances – a successful home World Cup campaign followed so quickly by a home Ashes series – are unprecedented. It feels sensible to select an expanded squad and leave a number of bowling options open for the final team selection.”
