England have called in Dom Bess as cover for Jack Leach for the second Test against New Zealand, slated to start on June 10 in Edgbaston. The decision seems to be inspired by the fact that they would be going for the spinning option in Birmingham, as the deck has supported spinners over the last few years.
"The reason we've added Dom is that any cover we may need has to be in here with us. If Jack was to feature, we would need back-up for him in terms of concussion replacements and things like that,” England coach Chris Silverwood said.
There is also apprehension about the slow over-rate s well. England were fined 40% of their match fees for maintaining a low over rate throughout the 1st Test at Lord’s and spinner in the side would have sped up the over rate a bit. Silverwood is preparing the worst as he believes that in case of concussion or injury, Bess, who is coming on the back of a four-wicket haul to propel Yorkshire to a victory in the County Championship.
"If we are looking at playing a spinner and Jack were to get injured leading into the game, then we will need someone else there as well. It's making sure we cover that,” said the 46-year-old coach.
Aked if spin would be on offer at Edgbaston, Silverwood said, "Are we expecting a spinning wicket? We will see when we get there, but I'm making sure we've got every base covered."