Gay named in PCC Select XI for Pakistan warm-up game despite shoulder injury scare
London, Aug 12
England opening batter Emilio Gay has been named in a 14-player Professional County Club Select XI squad for a three-day warm-up fixture against the touring Pakistan side, starting at Beckenham on Thursday. It is followed by matches between the two teams at Lord's and Edgbaston respectively.
Left-handed batter Gay, 26, suffered an injury scare after retiring hurt with a shoulder issue while batting for Durham in their One-Day Cup match against Middlesex. Gay felt discomfort in his right shoulder after hitting Toby Roland-Jones for four past mid-on, and immediately clutched the joint before signalling for the physio.
Despite undergoing a scan, Gay is expected to prove his fitness during the Beckenham encounter ahead of England's three-match Test series against Pakistan, which is a part of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, where the hosts are seventh in the standings and the visitors in eighth spot.
Sussex all-rounder Tom Haines will captain the PCC Select XI, with former England international Mike Yardy stepping in as head coach. The squad features an exciting mix of young talent alongside international players, including Test players Shoaib Bashir, Matt Fisher, and James Rew, all eager to impress.
Gay, who made his Test debut earlier this summer, has been included in England's 16-man Test squad, which notably features no specialist opening cover. Returning batter Ollie Pope remains the spare option, while Jordan Cox is set to replace the injured Jacob Bethell at number three, with Dan Lawrence recalled to bat at number six.
PCC Select XI squad: Tom Haines (Captain), Shoaib Bashir, Luc Benkenstein, Caleb Falconer, Matt Fisher, Emilio Gay, Nathan Gilchrist, Josh Hull, Manny Lumsden, James Rew, James Sales, Charlie Tear, Noah Thain, Saif Zaib.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Interesting to see them giving chances to county players. But I'm more curious about Pakistan's preparation - they've been inconsistent lately. This warm-up match could reveal a lot about both teams' strategies before the Test series.
As an Indian cricket fan who watches all international cricket, I feel for Gay - injuries at the wrong time can derail a career. But the England management seems confident. These warm-up games are crucial for player confidence, especially before a big series.
The PCC Select XI concept is really smart - it gives fringe players a chance to stake their claim. No specialist opening cover in the Test squad is a bit risky though. Hope Gay recovers fully and grabs this opportunity with both hands. 🙏
Honestly, England's selection policies keep changing every series. But this warm-up match should be good practice for both sides. Pakistan's bowling attack will test this young batting lineup, especially if the pitch at Beckenham has any juice.
I think it's wise to include Gay despite the injury scare. Sometimes you have to trust the player's grit. Looking forward to seeing how Shoaib Bashir performs too - he's been making waves lately. This match could set the tone for the entire series. 🔥
A Aditya G < We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.