England's Dan Lawrence Returns for Test Series Against Pakistan

Dan Lawrence is set to make his return to the England Test squad for the upcoming series against Pakistan, following a two-year absence. With Jacob Bethell sidelined due to injury, Lawrence will take on a crucial role in the batting lineup. The first test marks the beginning of a new era for England cricket after Ben Stokes' retirement. The team faces challenges ahead, having struggled in recent matches. Discover more about the squad changes and what this means for England's cricketing future.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 6, 2026, 23:40 IST

Dan Lawrence's Comeback to the England Squad

On Thursday, England announced the recall of Dan Lawrence for the first test against Pakistan, marking his return after a two-year hiatus. Unfortunately, Jacob Bethell has been ruled out of the three-match series due to a right knee injury.

The first test, which signifies the beginning of the post-Ben Stokes era, is set to take place in Leeds on August 19. Lawrence, a batting allrounder from Surrey, will step into the challenging role of filling the significant void left by the former captain.

Expected to bat at No. 6, Lawrence will likely be joined by wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, who is anticipated to bat one position lower. With Bethell's absence, Jordan Cox is now positioned to take the first drop in the batting lineup.

Cox, who faced his own injury challenges, made his test debut in June against New Zealand at The Oval, where he batted at No. 7.

Fast bowler Brydon Carse, who missed the recent 2-1 defeat against New Zealand due to a right hand injury, has been included in England's 16-man squad for the initial two tests. Joe Root returns as captain, with Marcus Trescothick serving as interim coach while Stephen Fleming is unavailable.

Ollie Pope, the former vice-captain, returns to the squad after being dropped during the Ashes series in Australia, where he averaged just 20.83 before Bethell took his place. Seamer Sam Cook is also back after his sole test appearance against Zimbabwe in May 2025.

Off-spinner Shoaib Bashir remains in the squad, although it is uncertain if he will retain his spot in the playing XI, especially with Lawrence, who also bowls off-spin, confirmed to be in the team.

Lawrence has not played since September 2024, when he last appeared in a test match, struggling as an opener against Sri Lanka. However, he has been in outstanding form in the County Championship, boasting an impressive average of 65.66 with five centuries in eight matches this season.

In the absence of Stokes, who concluded his illustrious England career following the series loss to New Zealand, bowling allrounders Sam Curran and Rehan Ahmed are also being considered to help balance the team.

England has faced a tough time recently, losing seven of its last nine tests and not winning a series since December 2024. The team will also face Pakistan at Lord’s and Birmingham.