Jordan Cox Set for Test Debut as England’s Wicketkeeper in New Zealand
Jordan Cox is preparing to make his Test debut as England’s wicketkeeper during their tour of New Zealand. This opportunity comes as Jamie Smith will miss part of the series due to paternity leave. Cox, who turns 24 soon, has been England’s reserve batter for the last five Tests and now has the chance to shine in December.
Smith and his partner are expecting their first child in mid-December, which may coincide with the second or third Test against New Zealand. Smith expressed his desire to be present for the birth, stating, “Being at the birth of my son is not something I want to miss.”
Cox made his international debut in a T20I series against Australia and will join the squads for a white-ball tour to the Caribbean. Despite a finger injury preventing him from keeping wicket for Essex, he has been honing his skills with Brendon McCullum in Pakistan.
McCullum, England’s head coach, supports Smith’s decision to be with his family and is confident in Cox’s abilities. He describes Cox’s wicketkeeping as “solid” and is eager to see his performance at the Test level.
Cox, known for his confidence, moved to Essex to reignite his passion for cricket, scoring four centuries and averaging 65.57 in his first County Championship season. He is expected to make his ODI debut in the Caribbean, with hopes of securing a spot in England’s squad for the Champions Trophy.
McCullum praised Cox’s talent, noting his potential to bat down the order and take the gloves in New Zealand if Smith returns home.
Doubts Revealed
Jordan Cox -: Jordan Cox is a cricket player from England. He plays as a wicketkeeper, which means he stands behind the batsman to catch the ball if the batsman misses it.
Test debut -: A Test debut means it’s the first time a player is playing in a Test match. Test matches are a type of cricket game that can last up to five days.
Wicketkeeper -: A wicketkeeper is a player on the cricket team who stands behind the batsman to catch the ball if the batsman doesn’t hit it. They also try to get the batsman out by catching the ball or hitting the stumps with it.
New Zealand -: New Zealand is a country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It is known for its beautiful landscapes and is also a place where cricket is played.
Paternity leave -: Paternity leave is a time when a father takes time off from work to be with his new baby and family. It is similar to maternity leave, which is for mothers.
T20I series -: A T20I series is a series of cricket matches that are played in the Twenty20 International format. These matches are shorter and usually last about three hours.
Brendon McCullum -: Brendon McCullum is a former New Zealand cricketer and now a coach. He is known for his aggressive playing style and is currently coaching the England cricket team.
ODI debut -: An ODI debut means it’s the first time a player is playing in a One Day International match. These matches are a type of cricket game that lasts for one day.
Caribbean -: The Caribbean is a region that consists of the Caribbean Sea, its islands, and the surrounding coasts. It is known for its beautiful beaches and is also a place where cricket is popular.
Champions Trophy -: The Champions Trophy is a cricket tournament where teams from different countries compete. It is one of the major international cricket tournaments.