England set to ring changes for second Test

England are set make a handful of changes for the second Test match against India in Chennai, as Joe Root’s men look to back up their victory in the series opener.

The tourists couldn’t have started the seires any better, comfortably winning by 227 runs on the final day following some great work from their bowlers, particuarly James Anderson and Jack Leach.

We have named a 12-strong squad for the second Test against India starting tomorrow ?

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) February 12, 2021

Jofra Archer has been left out after taking an injection in his elbow but is expected to make it back for the third game, James Anderson and Dom Bess will also make way, with wicketkeeper Jos Buttler flying back to England as part of the rotation policy.

This will allow Moeen Ali to make his long awaited return to the longest form of the game while Stuart Broad will come back into the side with the other pace option between Warwickshire pair Olly Stone and Chris Woakes, neither have featured in any matches this year yet.

Ben Foakes will also get another chance to impress with Buttler being rested for the remainder of the series, having had limited opportunities so far in his short international career.

Jonny Bairstow and Mark Wood are both currently traveling back to India in preparation to be available for selection for the third Test to give Root further, fresh options at his disposal.

Joe Root has spoken to BBC Sport about dropping Dom Bess ahead of the second Test.

“I’m sure he’ll come back with questions and I’m sure he will be disappointed, but that’s what you expect from guys that really care and want to be out there all the time, performing for their country.

“He’s got a very good attitude. He’s still very much at the start of his career and he’ll use this as an opportunity to get better.”

Batsman Zak Crawley also remains absent after picking up an injury in the build up the the first Test in Chennai.

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