England announce their 12-man squad for the second Ashes Test

Hosts England will have their backs to the walls when they take on a confident Australian unit at Lord's in London for the second Test of the Ashes, starting from 14 August. The Joe Root-led side was thrashed by a margin of 251 runs in the first Test at Edgbaston and will be itching to get things back on track before their World Cup glory turns into a distant memory.

After being criticised for the team selections made in the first Test, England have named a few new inclusions into their side for the upcoming game. The team management has dropped Moeen Ali and recalled spinner Jack Leach into the mix. Ali, who couldn't contribute with both bat and ball in the first Test, was expected to be sidelined for the second Test at Lord's. Pacer Olly Stone too has been ruled out with a back injury.

It may be noted that Leach last played for England a few weeks ago against Ireland, when he smashed a career-best 92 to make a match-winning contribution.

World Cup winner Jofra Archer too has been named among the 12-man squad. The fast bowler impressed one and all with his heroics at the recently concluded quadrennial event and could well be in to make his debut at the Home of Cricket and replace the injured James Anderson on Wednesday.

While Joe Root, Jason Roy, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad and Chris Woakes almost certain to make it to the playing XI, Joe Denly, Jofra Archer, Sam Curran and Jack Leach will be the ones fighting it out for the remaining three spots in the side.

England's 12-man squad for the second Test: Joe Root (C), Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes, Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, Rory Burns, Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes, Jack Leach, Jofra Archer, Sam Curran, Joe Denly