Marcus Trescothick Tests Positive For Covid: England’s batting coach was unable to join the England squad in Leeds after testing positive for Covid-19. Trescothick, England’s men’s batting coach, has remained at home in Somerset, isolating himself from the rest of the country. His return to the squad is still up in the air.
Ben Stokes was also a no-show during England’s Tuesday training session in Leeds, on June 21. The England captain was also unwell, but a Covid test revealed that he was unaffected. He is expected to be able to practice again on Wednesday, according to the team’s management, on June 22.
No vice-captain has been appointed since Stokes’ appointment. Stokes will not be tested again until Wednesday unless he develops new symptoms. Additional players will not be assessed until they show signs of illness.
Six members of the New Zealand touring squad, including four players and two backroom staff, have tested positive in recent weeks, but they are all available for the LV= Insurance Test.
James Anderson is unlikely to play in the third test
Coming into the third Test, there may also be some concerns about James Anderson’s fitness. Anderson did bowl for a brief period of time in training on Tuesday (June 21), but he looked far from his best, with rumors swirling that he is suffering from an ankle injury.
England is apparently considering leaving him out in order for him to be completely fit for the long-awaited final Test of the India series, which starts on July 1 at Edgbaston. If the Leeds Test lasts five days, there will only be three days between games.
If Anderson is unavailable, Jamie Overton is expected to replace him in the England starting lineup. Stuart Broad may be rested by England, and if that happens, Jamie’s twin brother Craig Overton may play.
If Stokes is unable to play in the third Test, Joe Root may be re-appointed as captain of England.
