Joe Root has been reappointed as England's Test captain, returning to the role after his predecessor Ben Stokes' retirement. Root was chosen ahead of Harry Brook for the captaincy. He has indicated a focus on learning from past mistakes during his first stint as captain, which concluded with one win in 17 games, later 18 after an interregnum.
England will begin the series with an interim coach, Marcus Trescothick, as Stephen Fleming is not expected to be in situ until September. The team selection for the first Test against Pakistan includes Jordan Cox and Dan Lawrence in unfamiliar international roles as a new No. 3 and all-rounder, respectively.
Pakistan, visiting England for their first Test series in six years, have made a quiet arrival following a sparsely attended series in the West Indies. Babar Azam, who has also returned as captain for Pakistan, is a slight doubt for the series after sustaining a hand injury during a warm-up game. Shan Masood, the previous skipper, is expected to be fit after a finger injury.