England reveals Playing XI for first Test against West Indies

England has finalized its lineup for the inaugural Rothesay Men’s Test match against the West Indies, set to commence at Lord’s on Wednesday July 10. 

Notably, Somerset’s spinner Shoaib Bashir secures his spot in the XI, marking his debut Test appearance on home soil following his introduction earlier this year in India.

Joining Bashir in their Test debuts are Surrey’s talented pair Gus Atkinson and Jamie Smith, both slated to make their maiden appearances in the prestigious format. 

Warwickshire’s seasoned seamer Chris Woakes makes a significant return to the XI, marking his first Test appearance since the Ashes series against Australia last summer.

The upcoming Test series holds great significance, starting with the first match at Lord's on July 10. This fixture will be particularly memorable as it will serve as the farewell Test for England's legendary cricketer James Anderson, who is set to retire. Following this, the second Test is scheduled from July 18 to 22, while the third Test will take place from July 26 to 30 at Edgbaston.

England playing XI for first West Indies Test: 

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes  (C), Jamie Smith (WK, Debut), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson (Debut), Shoaib Bashir, James Anderson