Wicketkeeper-batter Sam Billings, who came on as the Covid substitute for Ben Foakes during the Headingley Test, has been included in the England squad for the rescheduled match against India.
England have named a 15-man squad for the final Test against India, with Billings the only addition to the group that was picked for the final Test against the Kiwis.
Ben Foakes, who continues to be in isolation after his Covid result, has also been retained. Foakes faces a race against time to recover from the illness ahead of the game on July 1. He was unable to keep wickets on day 3, complaining of back trouble before undergoing a lateral flow test that yielded a positive result.
Veteran fast bowler James Anderson, who was rested for the final Test against New Zealand, is also part of the squad and will most likely be a part of the final XI as well.
India currently lead the series 2-1 and a win or draw in the rescheduled Test will give them a Test series win in England after 15 years. England though have looked formidable under a new coach and captain, highlighted by how they blanked New Zealand 3-0.
A mouth-watering contest awaits us all at Edgbaston!
England squad for 5th Test: Ben Stokes (c), Joe Root, Ollie Pope, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Billings, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Foakes, Jack Leach, Alex Lees, Craig Overton, Jamie Overton, Matthew Potts
Also read: England make a bold statement ahead of the Test vs India, clean sweep New Zealand