Chris Woakes is expected to play for the England Lions again against India A

The England Lions’ roster for the two games against India A was just revealed by the England Cricket Board (ECB). Chris Woakes, the team’s star pacemaker, is getting ready to make his much anticipated comeback following an ankle injury.

Interestingly, Chris Woakes hasn’t played since January 2025. The forthcoming games are slated to start on May 30 and end on June 6.

James Rew, a rising wicketkeeper for Somerset, is one of the other noteworthy names included in the 15-man roster. For those who don’t know, Rew will captain the Lions and was just selected in England’s team for the one-time Test match against Zimbabwe. As he heals from an abdominal injury, Jordan Cox, whom he previously replaced, is also included in the squad.

In addition to them, it is widely known that emerging spinner Farhan Ahmed and young firebrand Rocky Flintoff, son of the renowned former all-rounder and Lions coach Andrew Flintoff, have been picked. Notably, Farhan is the brother of Rehan Ahmed, who also plays for the team; the two brothers made their first appearance together. Notably, Rehan will only participate in the opening game. All-rounder Dan Mousley, who played against the West Indies, and Josh Hull, who most recently faced Sri Lanka, were both included in the Lions team.

Jofra Archer, who was kicked out of the Indian Premier League, is one of these guys that stands out as a major absence. Archer will not be participating this time due to a thumb injury. He is anticipated to recover in time for England’s next red-ball duties, though.

“This series is a huge opportunity for an exciting and highly talented group of players,” the BBC reported Ed Barney, the ECB’s performance director for men’s cricket.

“It will provide an opportunity both individually and collectively to excel on the international stage as we continue to succession plan for England’s future needs,” he stated.

India A will practise before the England series.

In the meantime, Canterbury and Northampton will host the two games, which will be played over four days. After that, a five-match Test series between England and India will take place. On June 20, the high-voltage fixtures will be installed. Young players from the India camp, such as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, will be included in the India A team.

India A vs. England Lions squad

Sonny Baker, Jordan Cox, Rocky Flintoff, Emilio Gay, Tom Haines, George Hill, Josh Hull, Eddie Jack, Ben McKinney, Dan Mousley, Ajeet Singh Dale, Chris Woakes, Farhan Ahmed, Rehan Ahmed, Sonny Rew (C), and Jordan Cox.