LONDON: England suffered another injury blow ahead of the second Test against New Zealand at the Oval, with seamer Ollie Robinson ruled out due to right knee pain.
The setback comes at an unfortunate time for the 32-year-old, who recently returned to the Test team after a two-year absence.
Robinson made an immediate impact on his return during the series opener, taking seven wickets in the match, including three in his first over, reaffirming the attributes that have made him a key figure in England’s attack.
However, his latest injury again raises questions about his durability at the highest level. His previous Test appearance came in February 2024 at Ranchi, where he bowled just 13 overs and did not feature in the second innings.
Fitness concerns have derailed his international career several times and after a promising return at Lord’s, he has been forced to wait to build further momentum.
England have confirmed that Robinson will remain in the squad and is targeting a return for the third Test starting at Trent Bridge on June 25.
His absence adds to England’s selection concerns ahead of the second Test.
With Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson already unavailable amid an investigation into an incident in a London nightclub, the hosts face a number of forced changes from the side that won the series opener.
Jofra Archer is expected to be in strong contention for selection after rejoining the squad following his IPL commitments and training at The Oval over the weekend.
England are also monitoring the availability of wicketkeeper Jamie Smith, who is expecting his second child.
Meanwhile, New Zealand have also been forced to adapt following Kane Williamson’s retirement from international cricket. Will Young replaces him ahead of the second Test.