ENG vs SL 2024: Olly Stone to replace injured Mark Wood in England’s XI for Lord’s Test

Olly Stone (Twitter)

England has announced that right-arm fast-bowler Olly Stone will replace the injured Mark Wood in the playing XI for the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord’s starting on 29 August. This change comes after the hosts look to maintain their momentum following their victory in the series opener at Old Trafford.

The decision to bring in Stone comes after Wood sustained a series-ending thigh injury during the third day of the first Test.

England initially called up Leicestershire quick Josh Hull to their Test squad as Wood’s replacement. However, the team management has opted for Stone’s experience over the uncapped Hull for the crucial Lord’s Test.

Also read: England announce squad for white-ball series against Australia in September; Bairstow, Moeen, Jordan not included

Olly Stone last played a Test match in 2021

Stone, who was part of the initial squad but was released before the series opener, brings valuable experience to the lineup.

With three Test matches under his belt, the 30-year-old has picked up 10 wickets at an average of 19.40. His ability to generate pace and extract bounce from the pitch makes him a potent weapon, especially on the Lord’s surface known for its assistance to seamers.

The rest of England’s lineup remains unchanged from the first Test, with Dan Lawrence retaining his place as opener after scoring 30 and 34 in the previous match. The team continues to adapt to the absence of regular captain Ben Stokes and opener Zak Crawley, both sidelined due to injuries.

Also read: Ollie Pope on England boycotting Bazball against Sri Lanka

England’s playing XI for the second Test against Sri Lanka

Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Matthew Potts, Olly Stone, ⁠Shoaib Bashir