Buttler named in England Test squad to face Pakistan

Jos Buttler, who has not played any red-ball cricket since the end of last season and last pulled on a pair of England whites against India in Chennai in December 2016, has been picked by new national selector Ed Smith in his first squad

^{England have recalled Jos Buttler}

Jos Buttler has been handed a surprise recall to the England Test squad for the upcoming game against Pakistan at Lord's.

Buttler, who has not played any red-ball cricket since the end of last season and last pulled on a pair of England whites against India in Chennai in December 2016, has been picked by new national selector Ed Smith in his first squad.

The Lancashire wicketkeeper-batsman has been in sensational form in the Indian Premier League for Rajasthan Royals, hitting five consecutive half-centuries from the top of the order, but averages a relatively modest 31.51 in first-class cricket and 31.36 in Tests.

According to reports on Tuesday, he will take his place at No.7 in the England order, with Jonny Bairstow moving up to five.

Buttler is not expected to keep wicket, however, with Bairstow retaining that role.

^{Dom Bess is in the squad}

"Jos Buttler is an outstanding talent, who is already a central part of England’s white ball teams," Smith said.

"The selection panel feels that this is the perfect moment to reintroduce Jos to Test cricket, where he has already enjoyed some success, including a stint playing as a specialist batsman at number seven. Jos is playing with great confidence and flair, and he will bring unique qualities to the Test team.”

With Somerset offspinner Jack Leach injured, his county team-mate Dom Bess jumps to the front of the queue and could make his international debut at Lord's.

"Dom Bess has made an excellent start to his first-class career. He has impressed everyone with his performances for Somerset and when he has been given opportunities with England representative teams," said Smith.

"With Jack Leach missing out due to injury, the selection panel wanted to invest opportunity in a young spin bowler. Dom's strong form, character and all-round abilities presented a compelling case for selection.

Mark Stoneman keeps his place despite a lean start to the campaign which has brought a top score of 29 for Surrey.

England squad to face Pakistan: Root (capt), Anderson, Bairstow (wkt), Bess, Broad, Buttler, Cook, Malan, Stokes, Stoneman, Woakes, Wood.