England squad announced for first two Pakistan Tests

England has unveiled a 16-player squad for the opening two Tests of their three-match home series against Pakistan, with Joe Root beginning his second stint as Test captain in what marks the start of a new era for the side.

Can Root inspire a fresh start against Pakistan?

The series gets underway at Headingley in Leeds on August 19, with England aiming to bounce back after a disappointing run that included a Test series defeat to New Zealand and major leadership changes following the departures of head coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes.

Root returns to the captaincy with the task of rebuilding confidence as England look to reset both on and off the field against a Pakistan side expected to provide a stern challenge.

Who misses out and who returns?

England will be without Jacob Bethell, who has been ruled out of the entire Pakistan series after suffering a knee injury during the ODI series against India in July. The injury also forced the young batter to miss The Hundred.

Bethell's absence has opened the door for Essex batter Jordan Cox, who is expected to slot in at number three after making his Test debut earlier this summer.

The squad also welcomes back Ollie Pope and fast bowler Brydon Carse, both returning to the Test setup for the first time since England's difficult Ashes campaign in Australia last winter.

Meanwhile, Dan Lawrence has earned a recall after two years away from Test cricket. Rewarded for an outstanding domestic season with Surrey, the middle-order batter is tipped to bat at number six.

Why has England backed Lawrence and Cox?

England Men's National Selector Marcus North said the squad blends emerging talent with experienced campaigners capable of taking on a strong Pakistan outfit.

He praised Lawrence for producing an exceptional county season and said his experience and maturity would strengthen England's middle order.

North also described Cox as one of England's brightest young batting prospects, adding that the Essex wicketkeeper has earned the opportunity to replace the injured Bethell at first drop.

England squad: Joe Root (captain), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Jamie Smith and Josh Tongue.