England’s return of pace spearhead Ollie Robinson after a two‑year absence turns uncertain as a knee scan shows soreness. The left‑arm seamer delivered 7‑77 in Lord’s, powering a 115‑run win over New Zealand. A scan on Friday raises doubts for the Kia Oval showdown on June 17. England will lean on uncapped Henry Crocombe and Jofra Archer to fill the void today.

Crocombe, 24, exploded for 21 wickets last season with a best 9‑69 against Leicestershire, earning praise from head coach Brendon McCullum. With Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson sidelined after a nightclub breach, England’s seam attack risks collapse. A single bowler now accounts for 14 of the 20 wickets that gave England the first‑test lead before the next match on Kia Oval.

Jofra Archer, who missed the first Test for IPL duties, remains a key option while Josh Tongue, Matt Fisher and Sonny Baker line up as reserves. England’s decision to field Crocombe could signal a shift toward developing county talent. The outcome will dictate whether the side can sustain pressure against New Zealand’s batsmen during the remaining two Tests in June series.