England sweat on Robinson's fitness as uncapped Crocombe drafted into Test squad
London, June 13
England's preparations for the second Test against New Zealand have been complicated by a fitness concern over Ollie Robinson, with the fast bowler set to undergo a precautionary knee scan and uncapped seamer Henry Crocombe drafted into the squad as cover.
Robinson, who made an impressive return to Test cricket after more than two years away by claiming seven wickets in England's victory at Lord's, reported soreness in his knee following a training session and is now facing a race against time to be available for the match at The Oval.
Confirming the development, England Cricket said in a statement on X on Saturday, "The Sussex fast bowler has been selected as cover for Ollie Robinson, who is expected to undergo a precautionary knee scan this afternoon. Robinson experienced soreness after a training session on Friday. Wishing you all the best, Ollie."
The uncertainty has opened the door for Crocombe, who receives his first senior England call-up. The 24-year-old Sussex quick has been steadily building a reputation on the domestic circuit and has emerged as one of the county season's most promising seamers.
Crocombe has claimed 21 wickets in seven matches this season and further enhanced his credentials with figures of 4-65 for England Lions against South Africa A last month. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with England head coach Brendon McCullum and managing director Rob Key both speaking highly of the young fast bowler in recent weeks.
England's pace resources are already being tested ahead of the second Test. Robinson's fitness concerns come with captain Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson unavailable, leaving the hosts to carefully manage their bowling options despite taking a 1-0 lead in the series.
England secured a 115-run victory in the opening Test at Lord's, recovering from a first-innings deficit before setting New Zealand a target of 254. The visitors were eventually bowled out for 138 on the fourth day as England seized the early advantage in the series.
Should Robinson fail to recover in time, Crocombe could find himself unexpectedly thrust into contention for a dream Test debut at The Oval.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Crocombe getting a call-up is great for county cricket! But let's be real, England's pace depth is shallow without Stokes and Atkinson. Reminds me of how India managed Bumrah's workload during the IPL—careful management is key. Go get 'em, Henry! 🏏
This is why I prefer watching Tests in India—the tracks help spinners, so we don't rely so much on these fragile quicks! But all jokes aside, Robinson bowled brilliantly at Lord's. Hope the scan is nothing serious. New Zealand will be licking their lips at this news though!
Uncropped? Crocombe? Anyway, it's always exciting to see a new face in the squad. But England should have planned better—they knew Stokes was unavailable. Reminds me of how India always keeps a couple of fast bowlers in the wings. Still, 21 wickets in 7 matches is decent. Let's see if he can handle Test pressure! 🤞
Honestly, England's medical staff need a review! Robinson just returned from injury and now this. Compare to how India managed Shami and Ishant over the years—they knew when to rest players. Still, Crocombe seems talented. Might be a blessing in disguise for England? Time will tell.
As an Indian fan, I'm just enjoying the chaos in the England camp! 😂 But on a serious note, these injuries show why Test cricket is so demanding. Robinson's 7-wicket haul was brilliant—I hope he recovers fast. And good luck to Crocombe if he gets his debut! The Oval is a great place to start.