England name throwback squad for Test series against Pakistan as Joe Root puts his trust in old favourites Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson and Dan Lawrence

Joe Root returns as permanent Test captain for the three-match series against Pakistan, starting at Headingley on 19 August. England has reshuffled the squad, recalling Ollie Pope, Dan Lawrence, and Sam Cook. Jordan Cox returns to bat at No 3 following Jacob Bethell's injury. This transition into the post-Ben Stokes era sees Root relying on familiar favourites within a 16-strong squad, as the team seeks a balanced XI without a genuine all-rounder available for the opening match.