Josh Tongue replaces Moeen Ali in only England change for second Ashes Test as Mark Wood misses out

England have included Josh Tongue in their XI to face Australia in the second Ashes Test at Lord’s after Moeen Ali was left out following a finger injury. Tongue, 25, took five wickets in the second innings as England beat Ireland at Lord’s earlier this month. Ad He has been picked ahead of fellow pace bowler Mark Wood, who again misses out on a spot in the team.

CricketEngland to open World Cup against New Zealand in rematch of unforgettable 2019 final3 HOURS AGO Tongue’s inclusion means England have no specialist spinner in the team as they look to bounce back after losing the first Test at Egbaston. That role will again fall to Joe Root, who bowled 22 overs at Egbaston, including 15 in the second innings, one more than Ali. Rehan Ahmed was a spin option after being called up to the squad following Ali’s injury, but he has been omitted.

England’s batting remains unchanged and Jonny Bairstow keeps his place as wicket-keeper despite missing a couple of key chances in the first Test. Australia’s Marnus Labuschagne said his side were encouraged that they won at Egbaston despite not being at their best. “I mean, I don't think we played our B-game,” Labuschagne told SEN Cricket.

England to open 2023 World Cup against New Zealand England beaten by Australia in Women's Ashes Test “I think there's a few guys that played exceptionally well, Usman (Khawaja) played really well, Nathan Lyon bowled exceptionally. “But I think all our fast bowlers — having seen them bowl for four or five years now – it was certainly not the best they've bowled, and we still only had to chase 280. “I think there's a lot to say there about where this team's at and how much improvement we can see from this team, from one game to another.