Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson return as Ollie Robinson misses out on third Test against New Zealand

England have confirmed their side for the series-deciding third Test against New Zealand, with Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson both returning after missing the previous match, while Ollie Robinson is the unlucky man to miss out despite being available for selection.

Robinson’s absence will raise a few eyebrows given the impact he made on his return at Lord’s. The seamer produced a brilliant performance in the first Test, taking 7-77 on his first appearance for England at the ground since 2024. His start was particularly memorable too, as he ripped through New Zealand’s batting order with a stunning triple-wicket maiden in his very first over.

After that performance, Robinson looked to have put himself firmly back in the picture, but a knee issue ruled him out of the second Test. Although he recovered in time to be included in England’s squad for the final match of the series, the selectors have decided to keep faith with Jofra Archer and Josh Tongue, who both retained their places after featuring in the second Test.

The biggest boost for England comes with the return of captain Stokes and fast bowler Atkinson. The pair missed the second Test after being stood down for one match while the ECB investigated an incident involving a nightclub visit and a breach of the team’s curfew. Both players were later cleared by the Cricket Regulator and are now back available for the series finale.

Stokes returns straight into the middle order at No.7, meaning Jordan Cox drops out after making his Test debut at The Oval. The England captain’s presence adds both experience and leadership as England look to finish the series with a win.

There is also a change behind the stumps, with Jamie Smith returning from paternity leave in place of debutant James Rew. Smith has been an important part of England’s Test plans and comes back into the side for what promises to be a crucial final match.

England have also brought Shoaib Bashir back into the team, with the spinner preferred ahead of Rehan Ahmed. Rehan had put forward a strong case for selection after an excellent County Championship display for Leicestershire, scoring 128 and taking two wickets in their victory over Yorkshire.

Matt Fisher also misses out despite making a positive impression in the second Test, where he scored an important half-century, while Sonny Baker is the other player to make way.

England’s XI for the third Test against New Zealand: