Taylor takes the place of Bopara
July 29, 2012 14:06:18 UK
Nottinghamshire batsman James Taylor has been called up by England for the second Test against South Africa, with Ravi Bopara unavailable due to personal reasons.
Twenty-two-year-old Taylor has yet to feature in the Test arena, with his only England appearance coming in a one-day international against Ireland just under a year ago.
This is a talented squad with plenty of international experience and they will be determined to improve on the performance during the first Test.
Geoff Miller
He comes into an England side hoping to hit back after a defeat by an innings and 12-run defeat by the Proteas in the first Test, with Taylor all but certain to take Bopara's place at number six in the batting order.
The second Test starts at Headingley on Thursday, with England 3.00 to win to level the series, while South Africa are 3.10 to triumph, wrap up the series and ensure that they will become the number one-ranked Test side.
Squad: AJ Strauss (captain), AN Cook, IJL Trott, KP Pietersen, IR Bell, JP Taylor, MJ Prior, TT Bresnan, SCJ Broad, ST Finn, G Onions, JM Anderson, GP Swann.
National selector Geoff Miller told the ECB's official website: "We were outplayed during the first Test last week, but it is important that this squad regroups and focuses on preparing for the second Test.
"This is a talented squad with plenty of international experience and they will be determined to improve on the performance during the first Test.
"James has been part of the England Performance Programme for a number of years and has performed consistently for England Lions and now has an opportunity to step up and experience the Test environment."
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