By: Drcricket7 Staff
England have decided to ‘rest’ Ian Bell for the forthcoming Test series against South Africa, and decided to include Nick Compton and Gary Ballance in the 16-member squad.
Ian Bell has been axed from the team following his dismal run with the bat, as the 33-year-old has managed just one century since July 2014 and has mainly struggled to score runs.
“I certainly feel I could have contributed out there and have been working tirelessly to get into the best possible condition for the tour,” Ian Bell said. “I’m going to enjoy a winter break with my family for the first time in 11 years.”
England, meanwhile, would be playing with Steven Finn and Mark Wood, who are nursing injuries at the moment, while spinner Adil Rashid and Liam Plunkett have also failed to make the cut.
Chris Woakes will replace Liam Plunkett in the England squad, while Surrey pacer Mark Footitt is also added to the squad.
“I’m over the moon I’ve been picked,” Mark Footitt said. “It’s a massive honour to be selected. Hopefully if I do get the nod I can do my country proud.”
England Squad: Alastair Cook, Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow, Gary Ballance, Stuart Broad, Jos Buttler, Nick Compton, Mark Footitt, Alex Hales, Chris Jordan, Samit Patel, Joe Root, Ben Stokes, James Taylor, and Chris Woakes.
