Cricket

Jordan Cox, a promising 24-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, is poised to make his Test debut for England during their upcoming tour to New Zealand. Cox's opportunity arises due to Jamie Smith's expected absence for paternity leave during part of the series.Cox, who has been England's spare batter for their last five Tests, has impressed with his performances for Essex. Despite missing the wicketkeeping role this summer due to a broken finger, he has been working diligently with Brendon McCullum in Pakistan to enhance his glovework.McCullum expressed confidence in Cox's abilities, stating that New Zealand is a "comfortable place" to keep wicket. He believes Cox's "solid" glovework and talent with the bat make him a suitable candidate for the Test level.Cox's journey to the England Test team has been marked by determination and a desire for change. After feeling stagnant at Kent, he moved to Essex to reignite his passion for four-day cricket. His impressive performances for Essex, including four centuries, have earned him a place in the England squad.While Cox's lack of recent wicketkeeping experience may raise some concerns, England's selection of Smith earlier this summer, despite his second-choice status at Surrey, suggests that this is not a major issue.Cox's Test debut will provide him with an opportunity to showcase his skills and stake a claim for a permanent spot in the England team. His self-assured character and talent make him a promising prospect for the future.

Jos Buttler, England's talismanic wicketkeeper-batter, will miss the third T20I against Pakistan due to paternity leave. Buttler, who captained England to a 23-run victory in the second T20I at Edgbaston, has traveled home to London to be with his wife Louise, who is expecting their third child imminently.Buttler's absence is a blow to England, but it ensures that he will be available for the entire T20 World Cup campaign, which begins next Tuesday in Barbados. The 31-year-old had previously confirmed that he would be at the birth regardless, raising the prospect that he could miss a group-stage match.Moeen Ali, England's vice-captain, is expected to lead the team in Buttler's absence. Ali played down the significance of the leadership change, saying, "Nothing will change too much: it's just taking over from what he's doing and then when he comes back, he takes over."In Buttler's absence, England are likely to make a few changes to their side. Will Jacks and Jonny Bairstow could move up a spot each in the batting order, with Ben Duckett coming in at No. 4. England could also add another bowling allrounder to their side in Sam Curran.Mark Wood, who bowled with a heavily strapped knee before Saturday's T20I, could also come into contention in Cardiff if England opt to take a cautious approach to Jofra Archer's fitness following his international comeback.However, Tuesday night's match is under threat from the weather. If the match is washed out, England will have a 1-0 lead in the four-match series heading into the final match at The Oval on Thursday night.