The 21-year-old, Jacob Bethell will bat at three on his England Test debut against New Zealand in Christchurch. To replace Jamie Smith, who is on paternity leave, and Jordan Cox, who broke his thumb in the nets, Ollie Pope will keep the wicket.

Bringing in Bethell at number three is yet another bold move by captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum. The attacking squad has been modified completely from the most recent tour of Pakistan. With Shoaib Bashir selected as the lone spinner, Gus Atkinson keeps his spot and is joined by other fast bowlers Chris Woakes and Brydon Carse to help Stokes. On his 150th Test appearance, Root will arrive at four and is supporting Bethell to succeed. In honor of the greats from both teams, Martin Crowe and Graham Thorpe, New Zealand and England will vie for the newly established Crowe-Thorpe Trophy.