Sam Curran in Contention for Third Pakistan Test Following Fitness Management, Confirms Marcus North
England all-rounder Sam Curran could make his return to Test cricket during the third match against Pakistan, scheduled for September 9, after being left out of the squad for the opening two fixtures to manage his physical workload.
What Happened
England announced their squad for the first two Tests against Pakistan on August 6, 2026, with the series slated to begin on August 19, 2026. Curran was omitted from the opening squad due to accumulated physical strain and minor fitness concerns sustained during the 2026 summer, which had previously caused him to miss a match in The Hundred. Selector Marcus North explained that Curran had returned to bowling fitness in July 2026 after sitting out the Indian Premier League with a groin injury, making his omission strictly a fitness-related decision.
Key Highlights
- Curran was not included in England’s squad for the first two Tests against Pakistan due to heavy workload and physical niggles.
- Selector Marcus North confirmed Curran remains a key player of interest and could be considered for the third Test starting September 9.
- England’s medical and backroom staff will work closely with Curran in the coming weeks to prepare him for potential selection.
- Curran, who debuted in June 2018 against Pakistan and earned 24 Test caps up to 2021, has not played a Test match in five years.
- With Ben Stokes retired, Curran is viewed as an option to balance the side at No. 6 or No. 7.
- In the current squad, Dan Lawrence is named at No. 6, Jordan Cox will bat at No. 3, and Jacob Bethell is sidelined due to a knee injury.
Why This Matters
Curran has not featured in the longest format of the game for five years, having focused primarily on white-ball cricket since earning his 24th Test cap in 2021. With former captain and all-rounder Ben Stokes retired, England’s selection panel is actively evaluating structural options to balance the lineup. According to North, a fit Curran provides tactical flexibility, offering the option to bat him at No. 6 or No. 7 alongside wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, or to deploy six specialist batters.
What to Watch Next
England’s backroom staff and medical team will work directly with Curran over the coming weeks. His physical recovery and readiness will determine whether he is added to the squad for the third Test against Pakistan on September 9.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Sam Curran left out of the squad for the first two Tests?
Selector Marcus North stated that Curran accumulated physical strain and carried niggles through a busy summer schedule after returning from a groin injury. Selectors decided it was unfair to place him into the opening Tests without adequate preparation and recovery time.
When did Sam Curran last play Test cricket for England?
Curran earned 24 Test caps between his debut against Pakistan in June 2018 and his last appearance in 2021, having spent the subsequent five years focused on white-ball cricket.
What team adjustments were made for the first two Tests against Pakistan?
With Curran rested, Dan Lawrence was selected at No. 6. Additionally, Jordan Cox is set to bat at No. 3 in place of Jacob Bethell, who is sidelined with a knee injury.
Source: Cricinfo interview with selector Marcus North, via CricTracker.