Ben Stokes-led England have announced their playing XI for the fourth Ashes Test against Australia and have recalled their most trusted pacer James Anderson after resting him in the third tie in Headingley. The 40-year-old Anderson has replaced Ollie Robinson for the all-important clash which is slated to be played at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester on July 23 (Wednesday).
Anderson hasn't been seen in his usual best in the series so far as he could only pick three wickets at an average of 75.33 in the first two matches which resulted in his omission from third Test. However England won the third Test by three wickets to keep themselves alive in the five-match series with Australia leading 2-1. But they will expect their most experienced pacer to fire in the fourth Test to stay afloat in the series.
“Lancashire seamer James Anderson replaces Sussex seamer Ollie Robinson from the side that defeated Australia in the third Test at Headingley last week,” ECB said in a statement.
Earlier, Ollie declared his availability for the fourth Test after he got injured in the third match of the series last week. Robinson bowled just 11.2 overs at Headingley before sustaining a back spasm. However, he did come out to bat with a six-ball cameo but did not bowl again in the game.
Besides Anderson's return, England have made another significant alteration in the playing XI that played in the third Test. Star all-rounder Moeen Ali will be seen batting at no.3 in the upcoming Test. Moeen came to bat at no.7 in the first innings of the Headingley Test. However in the second innings he came up the order which saw Harry Brook reclaiming his preferred no.5 position. Moeen couldn't really fire with the bat in his new batting position as he scored just five runs in the match. But Brook made an impact with an impressive 75 to which played an instrumental role in England's win.
England's Playing XI for 4t Ashes Test: Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Moeen Ali, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jonathan Bairstow, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, Stuart Broad, James Anderson.
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