Ben Duckett likely to be available for final Test against West Indies

Ben Duckett and his partner welcomed their first child on Wednesday, making the England opener likely to be available for the final Test of the three-match series against the West Indies.

Earlier, there were reports suggesting that Duckett might miss the second Test at Trent Bridge, despite being initially named in the XI, due to the impending birth of their child. As a precaution, England had named Dan Lawrence as a standby.

Despite the uncertainty, Duckett played in the second Test, delivering an impressive performance with a 59-ball 71 in the first innings, helping England achieve the fastest fifty in Test cricket in just 4.2 overs. He continued his form with another quick knock, scoring 76 runs off 92 balls in the second innings.

After the second Test, Duckett left the England squad to be with his partner Paige Ogborne. On Wednesday, they welcomed their daughter, Margot.

With this news, Duckett is anticipated to be available for the third and final Test at Edgbaston starting on July 26, although an official confirmation is still pending.

England, leading the series 2-0, will head into the final Test with the series already secured following their dominant victory over the West Indies at Trent Bridge.