The Latest Breaking News from Brendon McCullum

Stokes and McCullum have lifted England from rock-bottom to ‘rockstars’

Tongue was named in the squad after injuries to James Anderson, Ollie Robinson, Jofra Archer and Olly Stone.

The 34-year-old has been included in Brendon McCullum’s side for the match against Ireland at Lord’s which begins on Thursday.

As most of the country enjoyed the final knockings of the spring’s rare hat-trick of bank holidays yesterday, England’s players arrived at Lord’s, the most monumental international summer since 2019’s World Cup-Ashes double-header now almost upon us. Brendon McCullum, the head coach, could hardly keep the smile off his face.

Ollie Robinson and James Anderson had fitness concerns ahead of the start of the international summer

England face Ireland before their build-up to the Ashes opener will contain days off, training and ‘quality time’.

Mark Wood is doubtful for Ireland Test but may play given injuries to bowlers, with Ben Stokes still struggling with his knee injury

Stuart Broad set to lead the attack at Lord's this week in the absence of 40-year-old Anderson, who is expected to play in his 10th Ashes series in June

James Anderson and Ollie Robinson will sit out England’s Test against Ireland this week in the hope of being fit for next month’s Ashes opener, head coach Brendon McCullum has confirmed.