New Zealand vs England: Matthew Potts Steps In as England Revamps XI for Third Test Against New Zealand
England has named Matthew Potts in the playing XI for the third Test against New Zealand, replacing Chris Woakes. Potts, who debuted in 2022 and took 14 wickets in that series, returns after limited appearances in 2023 and 2024. With England leading 2-0, this decision aims to groom pacers for future tours, including the 2025 Australia series.
The third and final test between New Zealand and England will see pacer Matthew Potts replace Chris Woakes in the playing XI. Potts, who made his Test debut against New Zealand in 2022, returns after missing several matches due to injury and squad rotations. England leads the series 2-0, and with their position secured, the team management decided to give Potts an opportunity to impress ahead of next year’s Australia tour.
Captain Ben Stokes praised Potts for his fitness and skill, noting his versatility with the new ball and in executing short-ball plans. Potts has been working closely with Jimmy Anderson to refine his skills. He said:
It’s another opportunity to look at one of the fast bowlers that we see playing a big role going forward. Two-nil up, you obviously put yourself in an easier position to make the change. Pottsy’s got a massive engine on him. He can go all day, bowl a lot of overs, but not just that, he’s a very skillful bowler, which he’s got better at by being here, working with Jimmy [Anderson] on a few things here and there.
Despite his absence from the XI in recent games, Stokes has praised Woakes for his contributions during the winter tours of Pakistan and New Zealand. His overseas performance has improved, reducing his average from 51 to 48.93.
England XI for the third Test:
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ollie Pope, Ben Stokes (capt), Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Matthew Potts, Shoaib Bashir.
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