The three-match Test series between England and New Zealand is set to start on November 28. Jamie Smith, the wicketkeeper-batter, is requesting paternity leave, therefore England will be without him prior to the series. Jordan Cox, who has been England’s backup batsman for the past five Test matches, will now be able to play for the team in December.
The second or third Test match against New Zealand may conflict with Smith and his partner’s December baby-birth celebration. The 24-year-old is wearing the team’s gloves in Pakistan right now. The head coach of England, Brendon McCullum, seconded the batter’s want to be present on the historic event.
I don’t want to miss that moment when my son is born. “If I lost my spot because of it, so be it,”
Jamie Smith remarked, “because it will be a memory that I cherish more than any in cricket anyway.”
“You do realize that it’s life? We wish people well and encourage them to be present for their partners when they have children. As of right now, Jamie is certain to play the first Test in New Zealand and might miss the other two. We don’t know for sure—it depends on Mother Nature to some extent—but we are aware that Jordan Cox is part of the team,” McCullum continued.
Also Read: PAK vs ENG 2024: Ben Stokes apologises for getting frustrated after poor fielding in 2nd test
Speaking of Cox, last month he made his debut for his country in England’s Twenty20 International series against Australia. He is anticipated to travel to the Caribbean with England for the forthcoming white-ball tour. Notably, the 23-year-old did not keep wicket for Essex after breaking his finger during The Hundred 2024.
Home