English selectors have named batsman Liam Livingstone in their Test squad for the two-match tour of New Zealand starting in March. Livingstone has not played Test cricket but took part in two T20Is against South Africa last year. Fast bowler Mark Wood was also included after recovering from injury.

Talking about the same, National Selector, James Whitaker said, “Liam has been a player that we have been impressed with for quite some time, having performed well in the county system with Lancashire and over the past couple of years with the England Lions. He is a very talented and tough cricketer who has the ideal qualities and character to be successful in the Test arena.”

When asked about the selection of Wood, Whitaker said, “After a frustrating period with injuries, Mark is now back to full fitness and is looking forward to being part of our Test plans.”

All-rounder Ben Stokes was included in teh squad, however, southpaw Gary Ballance, pacer Jake Ball and all-rounder Tom Curran, who were all in the squad for the Ashes series which England lost 4-0, were left out.

England squad: Joe Root (captain), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Alastair Cook, Mason Crane, Ben Foakes, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Craig Overton, Ben Stokes, Mark Stoneman, James Vince, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood