England bring in uncapped Henry Crocombe to cover Ollie Robinson in 2026 Test squad

England add uncapped seamer Henry Crocombe to cover Ollie Robinson, who faces a scan for knee soreness ahead of the Test series.

Robinson ruled out with injury scare England face a potential blow as Ollie Robinson, who claimed match-best figures of 7 for 77 on his Test return at Lord’s, is dealing with knee discomfort following a training session yesterday. Robinson, who has been a key part of the attack in the absence of other seam options, is set to undergo a precautionary scan today to assess the issue. His absence would be a significant setback after he led the bowling effort at the historic venue. The scan results will determine his availability for the upcoming matches. ## England’s fast-bowling crisis deepens England’s selection headaches continue to mount after Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were ruled out due to disciplinary matters. The absence of Stokes and Atkinson, who both took seven-wicket hauls in the opening Test, has forced the selectors to look elsewhere for cover. Jofra Archer has already been recalled to the squad following his participation in the IPL, while Matthew Fisher and Sonny Baker remain in contention as additional seam-bowling options. The team’s pace battery is now heavily depleted ahead of critical fixtures. ## Crocombe named as Robinson’s temporary replacement With Robinson’s fitness in doubt, England have turned to uncapped seamer Henry Crocombe as his cover. Crocombe, a teammate of Robinson at Sussex, has been a regular feature in recent Lions squads despite never earning a full international cap. He is currently in action for Sussex against Glamorgan at Hove, where he claimed 2 for 41 in the first innings. His credentials include 21 Division One wickets at an average of 28.61 this season, along with a four-wicket haul in the Lions’ recent unofficial Test against South Africa A. ## England’s bowling unit gathers at Hove Robinson, Archer, and Atkinson were all present at Hove, where they took part in bowling drills under the supervision of Troy Cooley, England’s lead for elite pace-bowling development. The trio worked together in the nets, fine-tuning their skills ahead of potential selection. Crocombe, Fisher, and Baker were also part of the training group, ensuring all available seam options are match-ready. The session highlighted the depth of England’s bowling resources amid ongoing selection challenges. ## Official statement confirms Crocombe’s addition England issued a statement confirming the inclusion of Henry Crocombe in the Test squad as cover for Ollie Robinson. The announcement emphasized Crocombe’s inclusion as a precautionary measure while Robinson undergoes medical assessment. The statement read: 'Uncapped seamer Henry Crocombe has been called into the England Men's Test squad as cover for Ollie Robinson.' The focus remains on Robinson’s scan results and his potential return to fitness in the coming days.