England named their squad for the New Zealand Test series, uncapped Ollie Robinson and wicketkeeper-batsman James Bracey are named in a 15-member squad.
England also rested their players who were the part of the Indian Premier League for the two-match home Test series against New Zealand next month.
While Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer are in the sideline with injuries, Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstrow, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran and Chris Woakes, all of whom played in the IPL, have been rested.
“Bracey and Robinson deserve their call ups to the Test squad. They have been consistent performers in the County Championship this season and over the past 18 months, have excelled for the Lions on the field and in the various camps they have been involved in,” said head coach Chris Silverwood.
The ECB said that the IPL stars would rest for some time before joining their respective counties in due course.
“We need them to recharge mentally. We will then take a view when they return to cricket. It will mean that they will get some competitive matches with their respective counties either in the County Championship or the Vitality Blast next month. We will work closely with each individual on when they are likely to play again,” said Silverwood.
Silverwood stated that COVID surge in India and players returning from there has kept them in sidelines for the Test series as a safety concern.
“Stokes is progressing well from his fractured left index finger and is set to return to action next month for Durham in the Vitality Blast competition,” said the ECB.
“Archer is to meet with a medical consultant later this week to determine the seriousness of his right elbow soreness,” it said.
England Squad for New Zealand Tests: Joe Root (captain), James Anderson, James Bracey, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes (wicketkeeper), Dan Lawrence, Jack Leach, Craig Overton, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Dom Sibley, Olly Stone, Mark Wood
