Bowling attack offers the main cause for concernRoot’s off-spin option may open door for Leach returnOn Tuesday night there were, theoretically, 21 English players hoping to play in the next Test. The expected announcement of the 13-man squad for Thursday’s game was delayed for 24 hours. This is unlikely to give Joe Denly much hope of a last-minute reprieve but it does hint at some uncertainty among the sages at the top of the hierarchy. Quite why they have to name a squad at all is mildly mysterious; it is probably necessary for those overseeing the players’ remuneration.
The situation is unusual since those overlooked by the selectors will be ever present at the ground, looking on and no doubt pining to play just as Stuart Broad articulated so earnestly after his omission at the Rose Bowl. The conundrums for the selectors most obviously apply in the pace department, especially when picking the final XI. But there is uncertainty elsewhere. For example with Joe Root back, providing scope for auxiliary off-spin, would it be better to have a different type of spinning option?