England announce squad for first two Tests against South Africa

The English and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) have announced a 14-member squad for England's first two Tests against South Africa. The three-match series commences on August 17 at the iconic Lord's.

The second Test will begin on August 25 in Manchester. 

Ben Stokes will continue to lead England with the squad having a great mix of experience and youth with the likes of Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, and Matthew Potts in the squad.

Ollie Robinson returns to the national red-ball setup after missing most of the summer due to an injury he suffered in March during England's tour of the West Indies.

"After an excellent start to the summer under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes, we're looking forward to an exciting Test series against a strong South Africa side. The selectors have picked a squad for the first two Tests at Lord's and Emirates Old Trafford with continuity in mind," - Mo Bobat, ECB Men's Performance Director

Bobat further added that Ollie Robinson will continue his recovery by playing against South Africa in a four-day match at Canterbury next week.

The final and third match will be held at the Oval starting September 8. 

South Africa will be captained by Dean Elgar, who has the likes of Kagiso Rabada, Aiden Markram, Keshav Maharaj, and Anrich Nortje to marshal.

England Men's Test Squad for 1st & 2nd Test:

Ben Stokes (c), James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes (wk), Jack Leach, Alex Lees, Craig Overton, Matthew Potts, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, and Joe Root. 

Read: Cricket South Africa unveils list of nominees for 2021/22 CSA Awards 

​