IND vs ENG 5th Test: Jos Buttler returns to squad, England add extra spinner Jack Leach for Manchester Test: Joe Root-led England side has announced 16-player squad for the fifth and the final Test against India at Manchester. Wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler has returned to the squad while England have added an extra spinner in Jack Leach for the final Test. The hosts would be looking to bounce back as they are trailing in the ongoing red-ball series by 2-1. The final Test starts on September 10.
Jos Buttler missed the 4th Test to attend the birth of his daughter. While he was not expected to return, Buttler has decided to rejoin the squad for the final Test. Meanwhile, England have surprisingly added an extra spinner in Jack Leach for the Manchester Test.
“Lancashire wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler returns to the squad following the birth of his daughter during the fourth Test at the Kia Oval,” England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said in a statement. “Somerset spinner Jack Leach has been added to the squad for the final Test of the series,” it added.
IND vs ENG 5th Test: Batsman Sam Billings, who was included in the fourth Test squad, has returned to Kent. As per Telegraph UK, the Old Trafford pitch is similar to Oval. The pitch is dry with no rain in the last few days and is expected to assist spinners as the match progresses. Considering that, adding Jack Leach seems logical. Back in India earlier this year, Jack Leach took advantage of the turning pitches and bowled some extremely good spells.
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With Moeen Ali already in the side and Joe Root also capable of turning the ball, it remains to be seen how Jack Leach fits into the team. Furthermore, there is also the question of resting James Anderson.
IND vs ENG 5th Test: England Squad: Joe Root (Captain), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonathan Bairstow, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Haseeb Hameed, Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Dawid Malan, Craig Overton, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood.
IND vs ENG: Jos Buttler returns to squad, England add extra spinner Jack Leach for Manchester Test
