England Faces Major Changes as James Rew Debuts in Second Test Against New Zealand

England Faces Major Changes as James Rew Debuts in Second Test Against New Zealand

Jamie Smith will miss England's second Test against New Zealand due to the birth of his daughter, marking a significant moment for the wicketkeeper. James Rew, 22, from Somerset, steps up as the third debutant in the match, set to begin on Wednesday at The Oval. Smith's daughter was born on Tuesday morning, and he has been granted leave to support his partner and family. Rew will take over the gloves and bat at number six, joining fellow debutants Jordan Cox and Sonny Baker. This marks the first time since 2017 that England has fielded three debutants in the same XI. The changes come after England's victory in the first Test at Lord's by 115 runs, leading to a total of five changes in the squad: Jofra Archer Matthew Fisher Sonny Baker Jordan Cox James Rew Captain Ben Stokes and pace bowler Gus Atkinson are unavailable due to a nightclub incident, while seamer Ollie Robinson is injured. This marks the first time since 1999 that England has made five changes during a home series against New Zealand. Rew, who boasts an impressive first-class average of nearly 42 with 12 centuries, spent time practicing his wicketkeeping with England's fielding coach Sarah Taylor on Tuesday. Despite taking the gloves, he will bat one position ahead of Cox. This series has seen multiple players welcoming children; Devon Conway, New Zealand's opener, also returned home for a similar reason but is expected to play in the second Test.

Source: BBC Sport - 2026-06-16