‌ENG vs SL | Josh Hull earns maiden call-up as cover to injured Mark Wood

08/25/2024

A six feet seven-inch left-arm sensation, Josh Hull has been named replacement for Mark Wood who was injured for in the first Test against Sri Lanka at Old Trafford, Manchester. This is his maiden call-up to the national side irrespective of modest domestic career numbers.

Hull’s inclusion in the England’s 13-man squad for the remainder of the series draws further questions on the ECB’s selection criteria. However, the left-arm angle coupled with his ability to clock 90 mph might be the major reasons behind Hull’s summoning.

"It was about half-nine last night when I got the call from Brendon McCullum. It's a very special moment. It's come around pretty quickly, I didn't think it would happen this fast, but I am really excited to be joining them", Hull told BBC Radio Leicester.

Wood was injured on the third day of the test after sending rockets to Dinesh Chandimal, and leaving the latter retired hurt. However, the speedster gave up from his bowling runup in the 56th over and left the field. The medical reports confirmed his unavailability for the fourth day, leaving the English bowlers toiling to get rid of Dinesh Chandimal and Kamindu Mendis in the morning session.

Hours after England’s five-wicket triumph in the opening of the three Tests, the medical team confirmed Wood’s absence for the next two red-ball assignments. Eventually, the England Cricket Board (ECB) called Hull as a replacement for the right-arm quick for the remaining couple of games.

Made his debut in April 2023, Hull has bagged 15 wickets from nine First Class games with a docile bowling average of 58.06. However, he was excellent for Leicestershire during a recent clash in the ensuing Metro One Day Cup. Additionally, the left-arm pacer impressed the selectors with his fabulous performance for the England Lions against the touring Sri Lanka A unit.

"I was happy with how I performed [for England Lions] but I never thought it would lead to a call this early. They've got Olly Stone there as the first replacement, so it will be a great opportunity to join up and be part of that environment."

England have named just one change in the 13-man community with Hull coming in for injured Wood ahead of the second Test.