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England Lions make changes ahead of First unofficial Test vs India A [Source: @CountyChamp and@YorkshireCCC/X.com]
The England Lions have made three major changes to their 15-member squad ahead of their upcoming first unofficial Test match against India A at Canterbury. These adjustments come due to a mix of injury, rest, and withdrawals.
Baker Injured, Woakes Rested, Hill Withdrawn
Promising fast bowler Sonny Baker has been ruled out of the first match due to injury. Veteran pacer Chris Woakes will also miss the opening game as he is being rested but is expected to join the squad for the second match. Additionally, George Hill has been withdrawn from the squad for unspecified reasons.
To cover for the missing players, three new names have been added to the squad, Zaman Akhter, a right-arm medium pacer from Gloucestershire and a graduate of the South Asian Cricket Academy (SACA). Akhter made headlines last summer with a five-wicket haul for the Lions against Sri Lanka A.
Henry Crocombe, a pace bowler from Sussex, has also been brought in to bolster the bowling attack. Meanmwhile, Max Holden, a left-handed batsman from Middlesex, is being rewarded for his excellent form this season. The 27-year-old has scored 663 runs in his first seven matches, averaging 47.35. He has already hit two centuries, including a top score of 184 in the season opener against Lancashire at Lord’s.
Despite these changes, the rest of the squad remains the same, with James Rew continuing to lead the side as captain.
The England Lions will face India A in two four-day matches. The first match will be held from May 30 to June 2 at Canterbury, and the second match will take place from June 6 to 9 in Northampton.
 "Rajgeeta Yadav")
