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LAHORE - England have unveiled a 16-member squad for the first two Tests of the three-match home series against Pakistan, with Jordan Cox handed the pivotal No. 3 batting role after Jacob Bethell was ruled out with a season-ending knee injury. The opening Test begins at Headingley on August 19, marking Joe Root’s first assignment since returning as England’s Test captain following Ben Stokes’ retirement from international cricket. Bethell, who suffered a right knee injury during England’s ODI series against India, has failed to recover in time and will undergo an extended rehabilitation programme, paving the way for Cox to cement his place in the top order. Cox, who made his Test debut against New Zealand earlier this summer, is set to occupy the crucial first-drop position despite limited experience at No. 3 in first-class cricket. The talented batter has, however, opened the innings on numerous occasions and is regarded as one of England’s brightest young prospects. England have also rewarded Surrey’s Dan Lawrence with a Test recall after a two-year absence. The 28-year-old earned his place following a prolific County Championship campaign, scoring 788 runs at an impressive average of 65.66, including a competition-leading five centuries. Lawrence is expected to strengthen the middle order at No. 6 while offering valuable off-spin, giving England greater flexibility in balancing their bowling attack following Stokes’ retirement. The squad also welcomes back wicketkeeper-batter Ollie Pope, who returns as the reserve gloveman after missing part of last winter’s Ashes series. Fast bowler Brydon Carse has recovered from wrist and elbow injuries to reclaim his place, while seamer Sam Cook also returns after his lone Test appearance against Zimbabwe last year. Pacer Ollie Robinson retained his place after an encouraging comeback against New Zealand at Lord’s, where he claimed seven wickets before missing the remainder of the series. The squad is the first selected under newly appointed head coach Stephen Fleming, who worked alongside interim coach Marcus Trescothick and national selector Marcus North during the selection process. Trescothick will remain in charge for the Pakistan series before Fleming formally assumes his duties at the conclusion of the English summer. Reflecting on the selections, national selector Marcus North said the squad combines emerging talent with proven experience. “We have selected a squad that balances exciting young players with the experience required to face a quality Pakistan side,” North said. He added that Lawrence’s outstanding domestic form fully merited his return, while expressing confidence that Cox possesses the temperament and ability to succeed in the demanding No. 3 position in Bethell’s absence. ENGLAND SQUAD FOR FIRST TWO PAKISTAN TESTS: Joe Root (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Pope, Ollie Robinson, Jamie Smith and Josh Tongue. SERIES SCHEDULE 1st Test    August 19-23    Headingley   2nd Test    August 27-31    Lord’s   3rd Test:    September 9-13    Edgbaston